Over 10,000 Somali girls graduate from UK-US funded literacy programme

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Over 10,000 adolescent girls and young women graduated Wednesday from a UK-US-funded programme aimed at boosting literacy and leadership skills in Somalia.

The programme which is funded by the UKAID and USAID saw 10,616 trainees graduate from an 11-month non-formal education course aimed at enhancing literacy, numeracy, and life leadership skills. Among the graduates were girls living with disabilities ‘who have emerged as influential role models and ambassadors, championing school enrolment and active participation within their communities and among their peers. ‘

According to a joint statement by the Adolescent Girls’ Education in Somalia (AGES) program, jointly funded by USAID and the British Embassy Mogadishu seeks to support over 80,000 out-of-school adolescent girls and young women (aged 15-25) to participate in education and life skills programs.

These programs provide foundational reading and numeracy skills, leadership opportunities, and financial literacy. AGES aims to empower girls to lead healthier and more productive lives, reducing the likelihood of early marriage and enabling them to contribute to their communities and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.

State Minister in the Office of Prime Minister Hirsi Jama lauded the support by the US and UK government’s in bridging the education gap in Somalia.

“Thanks to USAID and the UK, these young women are equipped with vital skills, setting the foundation for a brighter future where informed, educated women contribute significantly to health, nutrition, and societal well-being,” Jama said.

Access to education remains a significant challenge in Somalia, particularly for girls and young women, with only 25 percent of primary school-aged girls attending school.

The Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu Taylor Tiinney, said the graduation is a ‘testament to the potential within each graduate, and we remain committed to fostering opportunities that empower girls and elevate communities.’

On his part, the UK’s Deputy Ambassador Nick Jaques said, ‘The girls graduating today are an important reminder of the millions of girls across the country seeking a decent education. Unlocking their talents and skills is crucial to building a safer and stronger Somalia tomorrow.”

The AGES project, (2018 – 2024), jointly funded by USAID ($15.5m) and UK (£10.8m) and implemented by CARE International, seeks to increase access to education for over 80,000 ultra-vulnerable girls in Somalia.