Reservist teaches computer classes to Afghans

Published April 13, 2007
By Staff Sgt. Carlos Diaz
U.S. Central Command Air Forces Public Affairs

CAMP EGGERS, Afghanistan (AFNEWS) -- There was no school bell, but class was definitely in session inside of a cement building where an Air Force officer taught "The Introduction to Computers" course to Afghan national army students in early April.

Capt. Ted Janicki is the senior communications mentor, where he oversees communications at Camp Blackhorse and teaches essential computer concepts.

He's taught this particular course to ANA students on two other occasions, each time lasting seven to eight weeks. A reservist from the 916th Air Refueling Wing in North Carolina, he also mentors and teaches the ANA and Afghan national police in the communications field.

"I've dedicated about 80 hours developing the class," the 34-year-old captain said. "However, the more I taught the course, the less prep time I needed."

This particular learning session was the first day of class for six students. The captain passed out a class syllabus and workbooks. After a quick roll call, the class began.

With the help of his interpreter, he asked the students how they use computers with their daily jobs. The students began responding and giving examples.

"The language barrier really isn't a challenge," Captain Janicki said. "One of the largest challenges is for the Afghans to learn the terminology associated with computers."

Technology education is new to this culture, but it's something they're embracing, he said.

Captain Janicki said he was very impressed with the crop of students in his current class.

"They're the best I've seen so far," he said. "They were able to grasp the information quickly."

One of the students in the computer class was quick to explain the benefits of the class.

"This class will help make my job easier for me," said Afghan Sgt. Jahan Gul, an administration specialist. "It's a good course for us to take because we can recommend it as a great opportunity for other co-workers."

Captain Janicki said he remembers the inner joy he gets from experiencing a deployment of this nature.

"I enjoy being able to help individuals who don't have the ability to help themselves," he said. "To train others on how to use computers is my job, but to help people who it means so much more to is something that isn't common."

"Being able to bring a whole new culture into their lives and to nurture that is something so special," he said.