There are approximately 20 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, and over 60% are girls. In the northern region, specifically, gender discrimination, outdated cultural beliefs, and poverty continue to put girls at a disadvantage. More families would rather marry off their young female children than send them to school. This problem is long-standing, and as International Women’s Day approaches, it is pivotal for stakeholders in the social impact space to take a moment to consider viable solutions that can help curtail this problem. Here are three (3) actionable ways to reduce the education gap for girls in low-income communities:

1. Micro-Schools with Female Teachers

Access to traditional school systems is often tough for many girls in rural and underserved communities. A potential solution to this is establishing micro-schools that can double as safe spaces for girls of such communities, helping to reduce travel distance, create flexible learning schedules, employ local female teachers who can serve as role models, and so much more. 

Micro schools of this nature would involve a buy-in by the community and its leaders. This would help build a sense of trust and ensure cultural sensitivity. The buy-in would also help educate the community on the value of education for girls and how such schools can be an asset for the community and ensure growth and development in the long run. 

2. Digital Learning Hubs with Tailored Content

The beauty of technology is that it transcends physical barriers. When properly and thoughtfully implemented, it is possible to transform lives. Creating a solar-powered digital learning hub within rural communities to educate the girl-child would bridge the gap in more ways than one. It would mean children having access to quality lessons and teachers and being exposed to diverse female role models besides their teacher through the digital learning content. 

Access to digital content that is tailored to the environment of these children would not only encourage a love for learning but also encourage their curiosity. Such content should challenge gender stereotypes and be made available offline and in local languages to ensure accessibility in areas with limited connectivity. Consequently, such digital hubs would have self-paced learning options for girls with interrupted education. 

3. Comprehensive Economic Incentives for Families

A lot of times, the driving force behind certain ideologies and cultural practices is rooted in poverty. With adequate resources, more families might take a chance on the value education provides for their female children. Thus, economic incentives like school feeding programs like the National Home Grown School Feeding Program (NHGSFP) spearheaded by the Nigerian government, free sanitary products, uniforms, and access to vocational skill training might be able to assuage the fears and concerns of families often faced with limited resources. 

It also helps to re-educate the community and families about the long-term economic benefits of education for the girl-child. According to an article about economic empowerment on UNwomen.org, “when more women work, economies grow”. One way to ensure that more women can work is to advocate for giving them access to more educational opportunities. Incentivizing the families of young girls on this future possibility can help move the education needle in Africa forward. 

In Conclusion 

These interventions work best when implemented together as part of a coordinated strategy. The Special Foundation does this through many initiatives, like the Special Summer School Program, where out-of-school children gain vocational and entrepreneurial skills. In communities where the value of education for girls is often undermined, such initiatives are poised to inspire and encourage every girl-child about the validity of their dreams. 

Female education in Nigeria isn't just a matter of rights but an essential investment in the country's future economic and social development. And whilst we celebrate the international day for women, little girls from underprivileged communities can see what their future looks like when they have access to quality education and are reminded of their worth. We invite you to support our mission in educating Africa by donating to our cause today. 

Remember: 

Every child is your child, every child has a right to dream.