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Empowering Girls, One Uniform at a Time: Impact of SHE in Togo

SHE in TogoAround 129 million girls worldwide are not enrolled in school. In Togo, girls spend an average of 2-3 years in school and only 33% attend junior high school. Tuition fees, school supplies and mandated school uniforms are the largest financial barriers preventing impoverished families from sending their girls to receive an education. Studies have shown that providing free uniforms can reduce dropout rates by 16% and absences by more than 35%. In response, the nonprofit organization Style Her Empowered (SHE) has committed to offering free uniforms to support students’ educational outcomes.

How SHE Began With Just a Uniform

Payton Mc Griff, the founder of SHE, was a sophomore at the University of Idaho, United States (U.S.). After reading the novel “Half the Sky,” McGriff learned the shocking truth of the daily oppression women in developing countries face. Hence, she resolved to join the effort to empower young women and break the cycle. In 2017, as part of a class project for her marketing major, she went to Nôtse, Togo, to do field research. Togo was the perfect launchpad for SHE because, though it ranks low on the Human Development Index, the government had reduced tuition rates for girls to incentivize education. Also, most entrepreneurs there are women eager to welcome new programs for girls’ education – Togo had both the need and potential for change.

While there, she saw the reality for many girls, including Elolo, whose family’s financial struggles forced her to quit school so that her brothers could continue. Every girl she interviewed agreed that a required uniform was the greatest obstacle preventing them from attending school. That was where her idea for a uniform that grows was born. With $35,000 in seed money and the help of local sewists and students, the uniform that grows was made a possibility. The dress is designed to fit a girl for up to three years, adjusting six sizes, with adjustable cords along the side and a foot of extra fabric hemmed underneath.

SHE’s Mission and Vision

Today, SHE operates in 20 rural villages in Southern Togo, including Nôtse. In these areas, girls are more likely to drop out of school, with 69% of households living below the poverty line. SHE strives to remove as many financial barriers for young girls as possible to create a world where every girl and woman can survive and flourish. The nongovernmental organization (NGO) focuses on three main areas:

Girls’ Education

SHE’s Holistic Girls’ Education Program provides every student with:

  • SHE uniform that grows
  • Full-tuition scholarship
  • A year’s worth of school supplies
  • Year-round tutoring from SHE’s local team
  • Reusable menstrual health kit
  • Durable, waterproof backpack

The program serves 1,500 girls annually from kindergarten to high school and has helped 6,095 girls since 2017. In 2023, SHE’s students achieved the highest success rates in the NGO’s history, with a 99.1% student pass rate, 40% higher than the national average in 2022.

Women’s Employment

Togo has one of the highest rates of gender inequality in the world and only 20% of Togolese women have completed primary school, leaving 1.6 million women without an education. Seamstress training is one of the most popular careers for women in Togo. However, there are no opportunities for support or growth and laborers are often exploited.

SHE’s Paid-To-Learn Employment Model creates dignified jobs for women employed in Togo. SHE guarantees its 33 Togolese women employees:

  • Salaries 75% above Togo’s minimum wage
  • 10% of the work week devoted to adult learning programs
  • Unlimited paid sick leave, social security benefits, national health care and retirement enrollment
  • Three months of fully paid maternity leave
  • Free child care
  • No more than 40 hour work weeks

Sustainability

Alongside the growing uniform, SHE has developed more sustainable products that help girls, women and the planet. These include:

  1. Reusable Menstrual Pads: Period poverty prevents millions of girls from attending school. Only 35% of girls in Togo continue beyond elementary education, most dropping out when they reach puberty. Hence, 100% of fabric scraps from SHE factories are recycled into reusable menstrual pads crafted by SHE sewists for students who were previously forced to miss school during their period due to a lack of sanitary supplies. In 2021, SHE produced more than 5,000 reusable menstrual pads.
  2. Recycled Plastic Backpacks: SHE’s latest development in 2022 includes the collection of single-use plastic bags fused to make durable, waterproof backpacks for girls, provided through its education program.

Final Remark

SHE demonstrates how effective grassroots organizations are at improving people’s lives in developing countries. The female-founded and female-led charity is an inspiring testament to women coming together to uplift and empower one another.

– Fatima Naqavi

Fatima is from London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: PickPik

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Female Empowerment through Fish Farming in Uganda

Fish Farming in UgandaFish farming has remarkably paved the way for female empowerment within Uganda. Supported by the United Nations (U.N.) Women, the women in the Bugiri District of Uganda are using fish farming to break down gender barriers that prevent them from escaping poverty.

The Situation for Women in Uganda

Uganda is located in Sub-Saharan Africa and has a population of 44.3 million, of which 41% live in poverty, living on less than $1.90 per day. As a developing country, women in Uganda face daily struggles. Approximately 85% of women work in the informal sector, which most often has poor working conditions, unpredictable earnings and job insecurity. Selling and trading at markets is a vital source of income for many women.

However, these women have no rights at work. Women typically struggle to platform their needs and concerns, suffering from frequent rights violations. Additionally, men dominate markets and thus, women are consequently excluded from leadership positions. In the long term, this has led to consequential restrictions on women’s economic participation across Uganda.

Fish Farming

Revolutionarily, women in Bugiri District in Eastern Uganda have broken into the male-dominated fish farming industry. Traditionally, fish farming was reserved for men, meaning women had to find other income sources. However, the women of Uganda have not only mastered the art of fishing but have simultaneously broken down the patriarchal taboo that prevents women from earning a decent livelihood.

Uganda’s Female Fish Farming Program

U.N. Women launched the Women Economic Empowerment Program to support Ugandan women defying gender stereotypes in fish farming. Initiated in 2019, the fish farming program aims to promote greater income security and decent work for Ugandan women, empowering them with economic autonomy by 2050.

U.N. Women and the Bugiri District Local Government specifically support rural women in fish farming activities in Lake Victoria. Before the program, many women with small businesses selling fish struggled. The fish farming program has trained 1,400 women in the district. As a result, there are 28 cages full of Tilapia fish, standing as a testament to the strength and empowerment of Ugandan women.

Female Empowerment through Fish Farming

The fish farming project has largely contributed to Uganda’s gross domestic product (GDP). The women have generated approximately $1.15 million in sales, producing 508.5 tons of fish. Additionally, U.N. Women have provided essential supportive services in the region, such as day care services for children, supplying necessary resources and housing fisherwomen in accommodation.

On an individual level, women across the Bugiri District have significantly benefited from the fish farming project. A resident and fisherwoman in Bugiri, Rose Nakimuli, commended the project, celebrating that she has developed aquaculture skills and learned how to swim and fish. Additionally, female empowerment through the fish farming program has several economic benefits. Women learned essential business management skills, learning how to run a business from start to finish successfully.

The project also strengthened women’s involvement in government and the whole fish value chain. Subsequently, the women established this project as a private company named “Women Economic Empowerment Bugiri” (WEEB). The CEO of WEEB, Ms. Immaculate Were, stated that women are now “specialized in feeding, harvesting, preservation, marketing and trading.” In turn, gender equality across Uganda has improved within homes, as women can earn a decent income to contribute to the family. Furthermore, the fish farming project has reduced gender-based violence because women are empowered within themselves, both socially and financially, instead of relying upon men. One fisherwoman added that “men now view them as heroes.”

Looking Ahead

Overall, female empowerment through fish farming across Uganda has been significant. The continued U.N. support for female empowerment is a hopeful solution to eradicating poverty across Uganda and combating gender inequality. “Once a woman gets wealthy, that’s wealth for the whole nation,” stated Were.

– Sian Ameer-Beg

Sian is based in Durham, UK and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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FGM in Somalia and The National Development Plan

FGM in SomaliaSomalia has one of the highest rates of female genital mutilation (FGM) in the world, with nearly 100% of women aged 15 to 49 having undergone the procedure. This practice is rooted in cultural, religious and social norms, perpetuating control over female sexuality and upholding gender inequality. Despite being illegal, female genital mutilation persists due to societal pressures, weak enforcement of existing laws and unstable governance. Traditional practitioners, often older women in the community, typically perform FGM, leading to severe health complications for the victims.

Reasons for Persistence

  • Cultural and Religious Beliefs: FGM is viewed as a cultural practice to mark the transition from girlhood to womanhood. The practice is also mistakenly linked to religious expectations and beliefs.
  • Social Pressure: There is a risk of ostracism if families do not conform to this practice held by groups. This process often aligns with practices such as child marriage. FGM is a way to preserve family honor and ensure daughters are “pure” and “virginal” women.
  • Limited Access to Education: There is a lack of awareness regarding the pain, danger and injustice of FGM.

The National Development Plan

The Ninth National Development Plan (NDP9) is a comprehensive governmental framework designed to guide Somalia toward sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction between 2020 and 2024. This plan addresses politics, improved security, economic growth and social development. Furthermore, gender equality and women’s empowerment are pivotal objectives of NDP9. A significant focus is placed on combating harmful practices like FGM.

NDP9 incorporates strategies to combat FGM through laws, public awareness campaigns and education programs targeting both men and women. This includes the Ifrah Foundation’s “Dear Daughter” campaign, which hopes to reduce FGM by promoting personal empowerment and asking parents to pledge that they won’t cut their daughters. The aim is that a three-pillar approach of education, advocacy and action will begin to lay sustainable foundations for FGM eradication.

Comparison with Kenya

With previously high rates of FGM, similar initiatives and legislation in Kenya have seen FGM drop to approximately 15% among women aged 15-49. Effective grassroots activism, education and support from nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have led to significant reductions in FGM prevalence, as well as the criminalization of those practicing. Organizations like the Kenyan anti-FGM Board and Amref Health Africa have been instrumental in these efforts. This comparison suggests that increased governmental stability and specific FGM groups can facilitate a quicker eradication of FGM in Somalia.

Activism, Advocacy and Advice

Activists like Shamsa Sharawe have played a crucial role in the fight against FGM in Somalia and Europe. By bringing the attention of international communities to the issue, Sharawe’s advocacy highlights the physical and psychological harm caused by FGM. Her efforts and those of various NGOs have been instrumental in pushing for more robust policies and community-based interventions. They display that this is not an issue of the past. FGM is a continual injustice and attack on female autonomy, dignity and freedoms.

Survivors of FGM, like Ifrah Ahmed (founder of “Dear Daughter“), have become vocal advocates for ending the practice. They emphasize the importance of education, community dialogue and international cooperation. Additionally, by sharing their stories, survivors help break down stereotypes and stigmas associated with female genital mutilation, advocating for survivor support and defending women’s dignity and integrity.

– Olivia Howard

Olivia is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Empowering Communities: Reducing Poverty in Indonesia

IndonesiaIn Indonesia, grassroots nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are pivotal in alleviating poverty, particularly in rural areas. Their reliance on volunteers, temporary workers and bottom-up approaches characterizes their efforts, a central aim of addressing socioeconomic and cultural challenges.

Poverty in Indonesia

According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), 9% of Indonesia’s population lived below the international poverty line in 2023. Although this is the lowest poverty rate in the last 10 years, more than 25 million Indonesians still experience poverty. Some of the causes of poverty in Indonesia include:

  • Economic Deprivation: Indonesia hosts some of Southeast Asia’s largest commodity export, manufacturing, services, dairy and digital export markets. However, its financial markets are still emerging and there is little integration into the global financial system. This restricts economic productivity and global financial influence. Similarly, with many areas still lacking basic infrastructure, such as quality roads, this delays rural populations’ access to the secondary job sector in cities that currently run the country.
  • Social and Cultural Factors: Strong family and cultural norms across Indonesia lead multigenerational families to live together. The natural sharing of limited resources this ensues often perpetuates poverty as individuals less regularly leave impoverished local communities.
  • Gender Inequality in Indonesia: Certain beliefs across Indonesia can result in women facing lower social mobility, wages and greater job insecurity. These cultural norms and gender biases limit women’s opportunities for education and employment, perpetuating a cycle of poverty. Desperation for an income and city experiences can also result in young, vulnerable (often rural) women either choosing or being forced into sex work, further entrenching their economic hardships and lack of social mobility.
  • Environmental Vulnerability: Natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods disproportionately affect people experiencing poverty and are common throughout Indonesia. In 2022, Indonesia experienced one of its worst earthquakes, which killed about 900 people and caused extensive damage. Natural disasters can increase poverty by more than 2% in affected areas.

Yayasan Kampung Halaman

Established in 2006, this Yayasan Kampung Halaman empowers rural youth through education and creative expression. Based in Yogyakarta, it helps them develop critical thinking skills and community participation through its endeavors. Programs include media production for educational purposes, community labs for social research and literacy campaigns that use various media formats like films and social media to raise awareness of social issues. ​ The organization received the International Spotlight Award from The National Arts and Humanities Youth Program in 2011, highlighting its impact on youth engagement through creative storytelling.

Koperasi Kasih Indonesia

Koperasi Kasih Indonesia (KKI) is a cooperative organization founded in 2011. It provides microfinance services to low-income families, primarily focusing on women in North Jakarta. Honing in on gendered experiences of inequality, the cooperative follows the Grameen model, which emphasizes small loans to help individuals start or expand small businesses. KKI currently serves more than 9,000 members and has disbursed more than $10 million in microloans. The organization aims to empower the urban poor through financial support and by offering mindset-motivation training to foster sustainable economic growth and self-sufficiency.

Rumah Yatim

This NGO supports orphans and vulnerable children by providing education, health care and basic needs, helping them break the cycle of poverty. Rumah Yatim aims to empower these children to achieve their full potential and contribute positively to society by offering a safe and nurturing environment. The comprehensive care provided by Rumah Yatim includes basic necessities and emotional and psychological support to ensure holistic development. The organization has reached approximately seven million people since its inception.

Sahabat Anak

Dedicated to street children, this organization offers education and social services to reintegrate them into society and ensure their well-being. It provides educational programs and social services to help reintegrate these children into society. This local effort tries to ensure street children have access to education, health care and a supportive community, bettering their futures and trajectories.

The Indonesian government and international organizations recognize the importance of grassroots NGOs in poverty alleviation. The National Program for Community Empowerment (PNPM) exemplifies this. PNPM encourages local community groups such as Yayasan Kampung Halaman, Koperasi Kasih Indonesia, Rumah Yatim and Sahabat Anak. PNPM aims to include a national body in community-led poverty alleviation activities to enhance partnerships between centralized and localized services.

Conclusion

Grassroots NGOs are indispensable in Indonesia’s fight against poverty. Community ties, participatory approaches and adaptability make them uniquely capable of addressing poverty’s complex and multifaceted nature. By empowering local communities, these organizations ensure that development initiatives are effective, sustainable and culturally appropriate.

– Olivia Howard

Olivia is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Reducing the Gender Wage Gap in Zambia

Gender Wage Gap in ZambiaThe variation in pay between men and women, also known as the gender wage gap, is a prominent focus of the fight against poverty. According to the U.N. Women’s 2023 report, for every dollar men are paid, women in East and Southern Africa earn 81 cents. The International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) recognized the large gender wage gap in Zambia and advised the government to “step up its efforts to take more proactive measures, including with employers’ and workers’ organizations, to raise awareness, make assessments, and promote and enforce the application of the principle of equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value.”

Understanding the Gender Wage Gap

In the 2023 Global Gender Gap Index rankings, Zambia ranked 85th out of 146 countries, with a score of 0.699. The Global Gender Gap Index considers education, health, politics and economic involvement. On the scale of the score, zero equals imparity whilst parity equals one. Zambia’s Index decreased from 0.723 in 2022 to 0.699 in 2023.

In terms of the economy, account ownership of either a bank account or a mobile money service was lower for women (45%) than men (52.5%). This difference helps to understand the gender wage gap. Although the rate of women working in vulnerable employment remains at 80.1% in Zambia, the number of female workers in vulnerable employment has decreased since 1991.

Education is a huge part of tackling the gender wage gap in Zambia and on a global scale. In 2024, the U.N. Women launched its economic empowerment strategy to champion clearer accountability for plans to achieve gender equality. These goals include U.N. Women working together with organizations such as UNICEF and the World Bank to advocate for gender equality.

Improving Education

UNICEF and the London Stock Exchange Group Foundation created Zambian Girls 2030. This scheme emerged because of the Zambian government’s “Vision 2030” aiming for the country to become a middle-income nation by 2030. The number of girls dropping out of education after completing primary school is almost double that of boys of the same age. Zambian Girls 2030 involved internships focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects and the girls who participated in the program met women working in these industries, including accountants and business owners. Between 2016 and 2018, almost 10,000 girls participated in the initiative’s school clubs, whilst 233 girls had the opportunity to complete the internship. Zambian Girls 2030 provided education opportunities to girls in Zambia which could further help reduce the gender wage gap.

One reason why girls drop out at a higher rate than boys after leaving primary school is the lack of transport. Between 2012 and 2022, World Bicycle Relief and the Ministry of Education in Zambia provided 36,977 girls living in rural areas with Buffalo Bicycles so they could attend school. This removal of one barrier to their education meant that these girls were 19% less likely to drop out of school than those without access to bicycles and the amount of lessons missed fell by 28%.

Financial Literacy

Mother’s Union is a women-led organization that addresses trafficking, unemployment and the financial empowerment of women. Across Zambia, more than 12,000 Mother’s Union members campaign against violence against women and advocate health awareness schemes.

Mother’s Union has been running the Literary and Financial Education Programme (LFEP) since 2000. The program educates both men and women. Therefore, the environment is one where both men and women realize the importance of furthering women’s education and how they can contribute to the household income.

The Girls’ Education and Women’s Empowerment and Livelihoods (GEWEL) project has helped 96,000 women in Zambia to access support and opportunities. Projects such as these could challenge the gender wage gap by giving women the opportunity to have a more active role within the economy. The project links with the Zambia Agribusiness and Trade Project, which aims to stop the challenges farmers face. Therefore, these two projects combine to allow women the opportunity to succeed through accessing opportunities within agribusiness.

Numerous initiatives are working to fight gender inequality in Zambia. By understanding the extent of gender equality, these schemes are addressing the causes of the gender wage gap.

– Amy Fox

Amy is based in Birmingham, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Sahar: The Organization Unlocking Education in Afghanistan

Education in AfghanistanEducation is crucial for unlocking opportunities and instilling hope. It can transform lives, empower individuals and uplift entire communities. However, not everyone has the chance to experience life-changing schooling. In Afghanistan, the situation is particularly dire: 80% of girls are out of school and less than one-third have ever entered primary education. This is not by choice. Due to the Taliban’s oppressive policies, which ban formal education for girls above the sixth grade, girls are barred from formal educational facilities. Despite these restrictions, many brave individuals and organizations are working tirelessly, often at great personal risk, to provide education to Afghan girls.

Education’s Impact

Education can bring social and economic development, reduce poverty and promote gender equality. In Afghanistan, educated girls are better equipped to contribute to their communities and the country’s development. However, the benefits of education are not limited to those who receive it directly. Educated women are more likely to ensure their children are educated, creating a positive cycle.

Sahar

Sahar, a nonprofit organization, has been at the forefront of the fight to educate Afghan girls. Since its creation in 2001, Sahar has helped educate 250,000 girls through 2024. The nonprofit provides grassroots schools and underground education, with people risking their lives to teach and learn. In 2001, Sahar aimed to build connections between the United States (U.S.) and Afghanistan, gradually expanding its mission. In this war-torn country, Sahar has built and supplied 39 schools, striving to serve those denied educational opportunities. Through education, Sahar opens pathways for girls to aim for a better life, targeting the 1.1 million girls lacking access to formal education.

Founded by Julia Bolz, an international humanitarian lawyer, Sahar has achieved remarkable success through partnerships. Information about said partners is limited, as partners in Afghanistan are actively breaking oppressive laws by protecting the human right to education. However, outside of Afghanistan, Sahar collaborates with several global partners. Sahar partners with the Afghan Ministry of Education, which helps maintain schools once they have been constructed. Additionally, foundations and philanthropists like Janet Wright Ketcham support the initiative, helping to construct two schools in Afghanistan. Institutes like the University of Washington and Coe Elementary School in Seattle have also supported Sahar’s goals through architectural assistance and fundraising efforts.

The Bright Future of Education in Afghanistan

The struggle for educational access in Afghanistan is ongoing. The Taliban’s restrictive policies, combined with cultural barriers, create significant challenges. However, the resilience and determination of Afghan girls and the organizations supporting them offer hope. Sahar’s work demonstrates the power of grassroots efforts and underground education in overcoming obstacles. By continuing to support Sahar and similar organizations, we can open up education and brighter futures for young girls. The fight for educational access in Afghanistan is far from over. 

– Abby Collins

Abby is based in Massachusetts, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Poverty and Gender Inequality in Pakistan

Gender Inequality in PakistanAccording to the World Bank, Pakistan’s poverty rate is 40.1%, about the same as in 2018. However, when accounting for population growth, approximately 7 million more Pakistanis are living in poverty today. Pakistan has faced several setbacks in combating poverty, such as its slow economic growth in the last six years.

However, there is another facet of Pakistan’s poverty that is equally important to consider. Women are disproportionately represented among the nation’s vulnerable communities, with 75% of Pakistan’s extremely impoverished population being women and girls. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as the “feminization of poverty,” is critical to consider when attempting to address the country’s poverty rate.

Gender Inequality in Pakistan

Pakistan ranks low on global gender inequality indexes. The nation ranked 145th out of 146 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Index, which examines the current state and evolution of gender equality across four categories: Economic Participation and Opportunity, Educational Attainment, Health and Survival and Political Empowerment. Pakistan’s performance in each domain warrants brief discussion.

  • Economic Participation and Opportunity: In 2023, only 24% of women aged 15–64 participated in the workforce, compared with 81% of men in the same age range. Reasons for this gap include lower salaries (the gender wage gap was about 34% in 2022) and discriminatory work environments. Moreover, traditional gender roles discourage women’s participation in the workforce, establishing men as wage earners for their families and expecting women to perform more domestic tasks such as caring for their home and children.
  • Educational Attainment: As of 2021, the average number of years of education was 3.9 for women and 6.4 for men across the country — while these numbers varied by region, in all provinces, 10% or fewer of women completed secondary school. As of October 2022, the literacy rate for men in Pakistan was 69.3%, compared with 46.5% for women.
  • Health and Survival: About 27% of women in Pakistan experience intimate partner or domestic violence throughout their life, according to a United Nations (U.N.) report in 2023. Furthermore, only 51% of Pakistani women perceived their communities to be safe. While the nation has passed laws and policies against violence, implementing and enforcing them remains a challenge. Many women have little access to services such as police and social support that ensure their safety and protection.
  • Political Empowerment: Women’s representation in parliament remains limited. As of 2023, women held only 20.4% of seats in Pakistani national parliaments.

How Does Gender Inequality Affect Poverty in Pakistan?

Pakistan’s adherence to traditional gender roles limits educational, occupational and political opportunities for women. But how does this account for the disproportionate share of women among the country’s poor? According to the U.N., gender disparities in poverty stem from women’s lack of access to economic resources and financial independence. Pakistan’s substantial gender gap in economic participation reveals this disparity. Lower literacy rates and education levels also reinforce these numbers. Education is essential to securing a well-paying job — fewer years of schooling reduce a woman’s economic opportunities and serve as an obstacle to overcoming poverty.

Addressing Gender Inequality in Pakistan

While Pakistan needs to make considerable progress to overcome gender inequality, some organizations are currently working to provide more opportunities for Pakistani women. The U.N. Women Pakistan supports U.N. initiatives to implement global gender equality standards in Pakistan and encourages the Pakistani government to comply with those standards. Recent efforts include creating committees for the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and strengthening Pakistan’s Women Development Departments.

The Women’s Parliamentary Caucus also works to influence gender-related legislation in Pakistan. The nonpartisan caucus works with international organizations to strengthen women’s rights and implement policies combating gender inequality in Pakistan. It recently organized a roundtable titled “Gender Responsive Budgeting for Women’s Empowerment in Pakistan,” during which it addressed various gender-related topics, including women’s lack of access to educational and medical facilities in rural areas and the prevalence of gender bias against national and provincial women legislators.

Pakistan’s gender gap in educational and economic participation is substantial. While the U.N. Women Pakistan and the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus are working toward improving educational and financial opportunities for women, much more work remains to reduce gender inequality in Pakistan. Bridging the gender gap will help diminish the feminization of Pakistan’s impoverished population—a major step in addressing the nation’s poverty rate as a whole.

– Lana Swindle

Lana is based in Princeton, NJ, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Marriage in Georgia: An Ongoing National Issue

Child Marriage in GeorgiaIn the nation of Georgia, 14% of girls are married before the age of 18. Mountainous regions where religious minorities exist, as well as the province of Kvemo Kartli, have especially high rates of child marriage. However, it exists all over the country.

The Reasons for Its Prevalence

Child marriage stems from a variety of social issues, one being gender inequality. In 2022, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reported that there was a 35% pay gap between men and women in Georgia. Because of this inequality, there is immense social pressure to get married in order to be financially secure. A survey conducted by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in 2018 “indicated that 27% of women between the ages of 20-49 who were married before the age of 18 are in the poorest index quintile.”

Furthermore, culturally, child marriage is believed to legitimize child pregnancy and pre-marital sex. Bride kidnapping is another reason for child marriage in Georgia that is not to be overlooked. Typically, this is an arranged marriage whereby the female is kidnapped and taken to a remote location where she is forced to marry. Between January and September of 2020, there were 34 reported cases of bride kidnapping in Georgia.

Effects of Forced Marriages

Many of these forced child marriages result in domestic and sexual abuse. In 2018, one in seven women experienced domestic violence in Georgia. A particular study by the United Nations (U.N.) Women also emphasized that 9% of women have experienced sexual violence before the age of 18.

Solutions

In 2014, the Criminal Code was reformed to outlaw forced child marriage. However, there are still loopholes in the law. For instance, weddings can take place in remote areas and families may delay registering the marriage until the individuals involved are 18 years old. Nevertheless, there has been some progress in recent years. With the rise of social media, hundreds of thousands of women have united to raise awareness about domestic and sexual abuse. It has become more widely accepted to report violence and abuse because of social media and global awareness.

In 2020, Equality Now, an international women’s rights organization, published an article called “Courage: Survivors of Child Marriage Share Their Stories.” The article shared the stories of seven women who escaped child and forced marriages in Georgia. One of the women, Tami, was able to avoid a child marriage at the age of 16. She confided in her teachers and friends about the arranged marriage and they reported it to the authorities. Tami now lives independently and encourages other women to speak up for themselves. She went on to say, “If they remain silent, no one will ever know about their stories.”

Final Remark

Social awareness campaigns can help prevent child marriage in Georgia. These campaigns can educate the public about the harmful effects of child marriage. Additionally, they can challenge traditional norms and cultural beliefs that perpetuate the practice. Campaigns can also emphasize the importance of girls’ education and empowerment. By doing so, they can help reduce the prevalence of child marriage and protect the rights and well-being of girls in the country.

– Madeline Rozmus

Madeline is based in Greenwich, CT, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The UN Is Helping Women Fight the Gender Pay Gap in Rwanda

Gender Pay Gap in RwandaRwanda is a fascinating country in terms of women’s rights. Even though it’s one of the poorest countries in the world, it ranks fifth in the Global Gender Gap Index, beating even the United States. The main reason for that is due to the genocide that happened in the country in 1994, which killed most of the male population, forcing women to take on most of the available jobs. Today, women constitute 86% of the workforce (as opposed to only 56% in the U.S.). Additionally, 61% of the Rwandan Parliament and 50% of the President’s cabinet are women. However, this high participation rate does not translate to wage parity: women in Rwanda earn approximately 88 cents for every dollar men earn. As such, the gender pay gap in Rwanda remains a significant challenge to the country, despite its progressive gender policies.

Main Causes behind the Pay Gap

Several factors contribute to the gender pay gap in Rwanda, such as discrimination in hiring practices and educational disparities between men and women. Nevertheless, the main reason is that women disproportionately shoulder unpaid domestic and care responsibilities, limiting their availability for paid work and career advancement opportunities. In Rwanda, for every hour a man spends on care work, a woman spends three hours.

Addressing the gender pay gap involves multifaceted approaches, one of the most impactful being economic empowerment programs. These initiatives aim to provide women with the skills, resources and opportunities to enhance their financial situation. Economic empowerment programs in Rwanda focus on various aspects such as access to finance, entrepreneurship training and creating supportive environments for women to balance work and family responsibilities.

One notable initiative is the U.N. Women’s partnership with local districts to establish Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs). These centres offer affordable childcare services, allowing women to engage in income-generating activities without the burden of unpaid care work. In the Nyaruguru district, the establishment of three ECDs has enabled more than 200 women to participate in the labor market, significantly improving their productivity and income.

Impact Stories

The power of this noble measure to diminish the gender pay gap in Rwanda is best illustrated through the personal experiences of the women it benefits. For instance, Christine Mukamana faced the challenge of balancing her farming duties with the demands of raising five children. The introduction of an ECD in her community allowed Christine to enrol her youngest children, ensuring they received proper care and education while she focused on her work, according to the U.N. Women. This support significantly boosted her productivity on the farm, leading to increased income and improved living conditions for her family.

Another example is Dative Mfitumukiza, a woman living with a physical disability in Musanze, Rwanda. Despite the numerous challenges posed by her condition, Dative was determined to pursue a business venture to support herself and her children. She participated in a U.N. Women’s training program that provided her with essential business skills and financial support. Through this program, Dative was able to start a cassava flour business, which now generates a steady income, U.N. Women reports. Her success story highlights the importance of inclusive economic empowerment initiatives that cater to the diverse needs of women, including those with disabilities.

Collaborative Efforts for Greater Impact

The success of these programs depends on collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations and international partners. For instance, the “Safe Rural Public Spaces” project, funded by partners such as the Republic of Korea, aims to create safe environments for women to pursue economic activities. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like the Rwanda Men’s Resource Centre (RWAMREC) and Action Aid are crucial in addressing cultural and social barriers that deter women’s economic participation, according to U.N. Women.

These partnerships are particularly essential to challenging harmful social norms about gender roles, a pivotal step to bridging the gender pay gap in Rwanda.​​ These collaborations promote gender equality training and awareness campaigns, encouraging men to support and share domestic responsibilities, thus enabling women to contribute more effectively to the economy.

Moreover, access to financial resources is a critical component of economic empowerment. Programs that provide women with microloans, business training and financial literacy are making a significant difference. The partnership between U.N. Women and ADEPE Rwanda, supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, has reached more than 2,500 women, including marginalized groups such as former sex workers and adolescent mothers, U.N. Women reports. These women have received training in entrepreneurship and financial management, with about 80% starting or expanding their businesses​.

A Model for Gender Equality

Economic empowerment programs are playing a pivotal role in closing the gender pay gap in Rwanda and promoting gender equality. By providing women with the necessary tools and resources, these initiatives are enabling them to become economically independent and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The success of these programs demonstrates that with the right support and collaboration, significant steps can be made toward achieving not only gender parity but also unlocking the full potential of the country’s workforce, driving sustainable economic growth and development.

With efforts from government, businesses and civil society to continuously invest in such programs, coupled with efforts to change societal attitudes towards gender roles, Rwanda can continue to serve as a model for gender equality in Africa and beyond.

– Clara Tripodi

Clara is based in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Higher Education in Sierra Leone

Higher Education in Sierra LeoneSierra Leone is a low-income country on the West African coast that is still recovering from a decade-long civil war (1991-2002). The Ebola epidemic (2014-2016) only hindered Sierra Leone’s ability to bounce back, with children losing a year of schooling during this time. In 2019, 72.4% of Sierra Leone’s rural population lived below the poverty line and the adult literacy rate was 51%.

Gender Disparities in Sierra Leone’s Education Enrollment

Gender disparities exist in Sierra Leone’s education enrollment. For instance, in 2021, boys completed lower secondary education at a rate of 46%, while girls did so at a rate of 67%. Additionally, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported that 27% of boys and 18% of girls completed upper secondary school.

A research paper published by IGI Global highlights the consistently low overall enrollment ratio in tertiary (higher) education in Sierra Leone from 1950 to 2010. It also reveals that from 1995 to 2010, the gender gap in higher education enrollment has widened.

Sierra Leonean students can only attend technical and vocational institutions or the University of Sierra Leone’s constituent colleges after finishing secondary school. As of 2020, 17 universities were registered with the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) of Sierra Leone, along with 15 post-secondary institutions offering undergraduate degree programs through affiliation.

While the government has mainly focused on improving primary and secondary school attendance, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) has also been focused on improving the quality of higher education in Sierra Leone.

Government Support for Higher Education

The Universities Act of 2005 reoriented higher education in Sierra Leone by supporting the establishment of private universities. There are at least 11 private higher education institutions in Sierra Leone that the TEC accredits. Many of these private institutions are affiliated with public institutions so that they can offer undergraduate degrees.

The MTHE offers students access to higher education through the government’s Grant-in-Aid and the Student Loan Scheme. Further, an Act of Parliament in 2001 instituted the Eastern Polytechnic and Milton Margai College of Education and Technology (MMCET) as polytechnics, ensuring that both institutions will focus on providing hands-on, applied education.

In 2023, the Minister of the MTHE, Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, outlined recent improvements in Sierra Leone’s higher education system and plans for further enhancements to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Secretary-General. One notable improvement is the investment of 21% of the national budget in the Free Quality Education (FQE) program from 2018 to 2023.

Wurie emphasized President Julius Maada Bio’s objective to increase education funding. Wurie also stated that the government overall and the MTHE are improving “teaching methods, curriculum review… and youth empowerment.” UNESCO has also helped by providing support for the development of a National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy for Sierra Leone in 2022. Viewing middle manpower as crucial for Sierra Leone’s growth, Wurie emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) sector. This investment is aimed at boosting socioeconomic development and preparing the younger generation for the job market.

Higher Education Challenges and Solutions

Higher education institutions still need to update their academic programs to meet the current job market’s demands and the Assuring Quality Higher Education in Sierra Leone(AQHEd-SL) project is the first step toward doing so. In 2022, the AQHEd-SL pilot successfully helped develop curriculum review processes for eight post-secondary institutions in programs associated with health, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), management and agriculture. It also trained 37 quality assurance officers to work in universities and 450 university staff members in learner-centered teaching and critical thinking. The University of Sierra Leone led the AQHEd-SL partnership with many local partners, including Njala University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, U.S.

Establishing standard learning outcomes for programs in similar fields of study is another issue in Sierra Leone’s higher education system that needs to be addressed. Systems like credit transfer and standardizing qualifications across different institutions’ programs give students the flexibility to switch between different institutions across the country. The drafted National Qualifications Framework(NQF) is credits-based. It seeks to provide a form of standardization for learning programs in similar fields throughout different institutions within the country. According to the African Continental Qualifications Framework, Sierra Leone drafted a new NQF in 2024 and the document is being examined in a nationwide consultation process with stakeholders.

Higher education institutions have also complained for many years about political interference and requested more autonomy. Bio responded by using the Universities Act of 2021 to remove the role of Chancellor from all public universities. This legislation allows other citizens to be appointed in such a leadership position for public universities. There are also plans to address compliance concerns raised by the new leaders of the public universities by improving regulatory frameworks and providing more support for the new Chancellors.

– Elisabeth Nwasokwa

Elisabeth is based in Bellerose, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr