Transformative Education Initiative

In a groundbreaking move to uplift the youth of Katsina State, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has successfully equipped 95,556 adolescent girls and boys with vital financial literacy and vocational skills. This initiative spans six local government areas and aims to enhance school enrolment, retention, and completion among adolescents.

Unveiling Opportunity: The REACH Programme

Initiated under the Reaching and Empowering Adolescent Girls in North-west-Nigeria (REACH) programme, these young minds were offered skills such as knitting, crochet, and henna design. Such training empowers them to seamlessly integrate into local markets, thereby boosting their economic prospects.

A Community-Driven Approach

During a recent town-hall meeting in Katsina, organized by UNICEF and the Katsina State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the programme’s achievements were celebrated, highlighting its pivotal role in reshaping communities. These meetings have also served as platforms where stakeholders—ranging from educators to community leaders—reflect on REACH’s impact.

Addressing Gender-Based Challenges

UNICEF’s efforts did not stop at educational empowerment. According to thisdaylive, the programme also provided medical test kits to boost healthcare capacity, particularly supporting survivors of Gender-based Violence (GBV). Training sessions have brought heightened awareness around child protection and GBV, strengthening local engagement and response.

Bridging Educational Gaps

The initiative recognizes the critical barriers preventing adolescent girls from transitioning between school levels. By fostering dialogues among students, parents, and teachers, the REACH programme aims to break down these barriers, ensuring a continuous educational progression.

A Vision for The Future

Through the REACH programme, UNICEF not only arms the youth with necessary skills but also provides a vessel to challenge societal norms and disparities in education and gender equity, paving the way for a more inclusive future.

This collaborative growth effort stands as a testament to UNICEF’s commitment to creating environments where adolescents can thrive both educationally and economically, securing a brighter future for the next generation.