As the first school year of our Future Girls project comes to a close, we held discussions with the students and teachers involved to find out what they thought of the project and what they would like to cover in the forthcoming year.
The project has created a vital opportunities to discuss problems that have a significant impact on girls’ lives, but are generally never raised or, therefore, resolved. The teachers and staff described seeing ‘different girls’ at the end of the project, speaking openly and with confidence both generally, and particularly on topics that would have been taboo before.
More than 70 students from 6 schools were involved in 15 topical discussion sessions across the year; 60 reusable period kits were distributed; and students presented at 4 school assemblies to share their learning with other pupils in the school.
“The Future Girls’ club sessions bring lots of change in the attitudes of school girls and boys. Previously, girls were very shy to share or discuss some sensitive topics but now they are relaxed and free to talk not only to their friends and teachers but also to speak out to the whole school community at the flag ceremony. And girls are supported by boys when they are at period.”
Zenanesh, Girls Club Leader
“Before I participated in the girls club sessions, I didn’t support my mother and my younger sister. I usually leave my food plate for my younger sister to wash. But after participating in the sessions, I started supporting them more. Now my sister is able to get enough time to play and study. Previously, she was spending most of her after school time on house chores.”
Muluken, grade 8 student at Meseret School
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