Introduction to the Afghanistan Science Academy

The Afghanistan Science Academy (ASA), the country’s foremost academic and research institution, was established to advance scholarly research and promote knowledge in the fields of social sciences, natural sciences, and Islamic studies. Its origins can be traced back to nearly a century ago, with the formation of various scholarly associations:
•    Pashto Maraka was founded in 1919.
•    Kabul Literary Association was established in 1931.
•    Kandahar Literary Association was founded in 1932.
•    In 1937, these associations were merged to create Pakhto Tolana.
•    The Ariana Encyclopedia Association was established in 1941.
•    The Association of History was founded in 1942.
•    The Archeology Department was created in 1966.
•    The Kushani International Studies Center and the Center for Pashto International Studies were both established in 1975.
The Afghanistan Science Academy itself was formally founded in 1970, but in 1978, a decree officially merged these various associations and centers under the ASA umbrella, solidifying its role as the primary government-supported institution for research.
Organizational Structure
The Afghanistan Science Academy operates as the highest governmental academic-research institution, overseeing a broad range of research activities. It is led by the Director of the Academy, and the organization is structured into three main sections—Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Islamic Studies. Each of these sections is headed by a vice chancellor. Additionally, an academic chancellor oversees the overall coordination of academic affairs.
Each section is subdivided into multiple academic centers, institutes, and departments, with the following resources:
•    17 academic centers
•    49 institutes
•    76 departments
•    A diagnostic and research clinic within the medical center
•    An ethnographic research museum
•    A public library
•    Several administrative offices, including staff management, information and public relations, cultural relations, policy and planning, among others.
In total, the Academy comprises 520 staff positions, of which 304 are academic roles, while 217 are administrative positions.
Objectives
The primary mission of the Afghanistan Science Academy is to conduct academic research across various fields. Its goals include:
•    Enhancing social welfare and cultural enrichment
•    Supporting economic growth through research and innovation
•    Evaluating and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources
•    Advancing both the quantitative and qualitative development of science and knowledge
•    Strengthening religious and Islamic culture in Afghanistan.
The Academy plays a crucial role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the country, contributing to its academic, social, and economic development.