Alternative Basic Education Project

Education is a right. It is one of the best ways for individuals to realize their full life potential to and actively participate in the social, political, and economic sectors of society. 

In Ethiopia, 76.2% of the female population is illiterate (UNESCO 2009). As a result, women and girls are marginalized, disempowered and excluded from many levels of crucial social decision-making. 

Ethiopia’s remote Dibate Woreda (district) has the lowest primary education rate in the region and the least number of schools. An estimated 85% of primary school-aged children in Dibate are not in school. Overall, 87% of males and 95% of females in Dibate are illiterate. 

The largest ethnic group in this district is the Gumuz people. Less than 15% of Gumuz children are attending school and children must walk an average of 6-11 km to reach a primary school (Grades 1-4) and up to 15 km to reach a middle school (Grades 5-8).

In response to this need CPAR is constructing Alternative Basic Education (ABE) centres and promoting ABE in order to educate and empower communities (especially women and girls) while acknowledging cultural norms.  

This project will target 500 community members (52% female) and also directly benefit 2250 family members. 

The project will have the following short-term and long-term results: 

• Increase access to basic education by Gumuz women and girls
• Increase awareness and understanding of the value of education in Dibate
• Increase literacy and numeracy amongst the Gumuz people
• Empower women and girls as key decision-makers and leaders in their communities

Be a Face of Giving today and make a donation to CPAR to help empower women and girls by improving their access to education. 

With your donation – together, we can reach this goal!