On October 16, 2023, the 2024 UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education was awarded in Paris, France. Two organizations, the “African School Equality Network” from Uganda and the “Action for Women’s Education” from Zambia, were honored at the ceremony.
Henry Senkasi, the National Director of Uganda’s African School Equality Network, and Fiona Mavihenga, representing the National Director of Zambia’s Action for Women’s Education, Namanda Malupande, both shared their thoughts during the award presentation.
Senkasi remarked, “Our initiative is designed to assist girls facing challenges. By establishing 30 secondary schools in rural Uganda, we are creating opportunities for them. Our efforts have transformed the lives of girls from low-income families, enabling them to achieve their dreams through education. This not only changes their lives but also impacts the entire community. Our model has now expanded beyond Uganda. These girls are gaining confidence along with essential skills and knowledge. We are grateful to UNESCO for recognizing our work with this award.”
Mavihenga emphasized the urgent need for support, stating, “Only 5% of poor rural girls in Africa manage to complete their secondary education due to complex economic and social challenges. Our organization has developed a proven model that provides girls with the skills and community support necessary for their healthy development within schools. This approach has significantly increased girls’ transition and completion rates, enhanced their autonomy, and effectively delayed marriage and childbearing.”
During the ceremony, Stefania Giannini, Assistant Director-General for Education at UNESCO, read a message from UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, who expressed gratitude for the continued support from China for the award.
The UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education, established in collaboration with China, stands as the only recognized award within the organization focused on promoting education for girls and women. It plays a vital role in advocating for gender equality in education and sharing exemplary practices to implement global gender equality priorities.
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