Empowering Girls Through Education: The Bakhita Partnership for Education
Around 3000 girls in 80 Catholic schools across five African countries are breaking barriers and overcoming challenges through the Bakhita Partnership for Education. This initiative focuses on empowering girls through education and support, addressing socio-economic and cultural obstacles that hinder their growth.
Fr. Charles Chilufya, SJ, director of the Justice and Ecology Office for the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar, emphasized the importance of creating safe and empowering environments for girls in Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia. Through the Bakhita Partnership for Education, girls receive not only quality education but also psychosocial support to help them thrive.
A Holistic Approach to Girls’ Education
The Bakhita Partnership for Education aligns with Pope Francis’ call to prioritize education, especially for marginalized communities. Education is seen as a tool for hope and healing, enabling girls to secure a better future and contribute positively to society. The project goes beyond the classroom, nurturing an environment where girls can thrive safely and confidently.
The Project’s Impact and Community Engagement
Schools participating in the program have reported higher retention rates, improved academic performance, and a decrease in early pregnancies and marriages among girls. This initiative has not only transformed the lives of these girls but has also changed attitudes and perceptions about girls’ education in local communities, fostering inclusivity and empowerment.
Building Sustainable Impact Through Partnerships
The success of the Bakhita Partnership for Education highlights the power of strategic partnerships in education. Starting in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia in 2021, the project has expanded to Tanzania and Malawi, aligning with government educational goals and garnering support from international organizations. The commitment to reaching more girls and advocating for equal educational opportunities remains unwavering.
Inspired by the story of St. Josephine Bakhita, the patron saint of Sudan, who overcame slavery to become a symbol of freedom and dignity, the Bakhita Partnership for Education continues to strive for quality education for every girl, especially those most vulnerable.
