World University Service of Canada

Published purpose

This project aims to empower adolescent girls and young women aged 10 to 24 years, who are pursuing educational pathways in crisis-affected areas of Uganda, South Sudan and Syria. The project reaches marginalized girls and women who are refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the most vulnerable members of the host communities. Project activities include: (1) providing life skills sessions on healthy lifestyles, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), mental health, financial literacy and negotiation skills to existing and newly established girls' clubs and peer-to-peer groups; (2) providing financial assistance for the families of the most vulnerable adolescent girls and young women to address specific educational barriers; (3) holding training workshops for formal and non-formal teachers and school leaders on basic, gender responsive and inclusive pedagogical approaches, including providing psycho-social support; and (4) developing remote curricula for learners to use at home enhances access to education and improves the quality of home-based instruction. With additional funding to address challenges arising from COVID-19, the project expanded its scope to work with schools and communities in promoting good health and hygiene practices. It also initiated the provision of remote learning materials, at-home instruction, and remedial classes once schools reopened. This project benefits 123,768 adolescent girls and young women, including approximately 37% refugees or IDPs. The project aims to reach an additional 23,164 teachers (formal and non-formal), educational leaders, other education professionals, members of boys’ clubs, and community and faith leaders, 61% women.