Challenging Cultural Norms: The Inspiring Journey of 3 girls chasing their dreams!

Did you know that Samburu County has some of the lowest development indicators in the country, with significantly low literacy and numeracy attainment? Furthermore, the county has consistently reported some of the lowest transition and enrollment rates over the years, with girls being the ones mainly left behind.

In a world where education is still a privilege for many, especially for adolescent girls in marginalized communities, the Manyatta Homeschooling Program by Akili Dada is paving the way for out-of-school girls to receive quality education. This initiative is designed to educate girls who cannot attend formal schools due to cultural practices like beading, which marks a traditional rite of passage in some communities and often ends their education. However, through the Manyatta Homeschooling Program, girls can continue their education while respecting their cultural traditions.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, we want to spotlight three remarkable young girls who have transitioned into formal education after undergoing the program. Ten-year-old cousins Consolata, Karuan, and their classmate Brenda hail from Baragoi County, where beading is a cultural norm for adolescent girls. During this stage, most girls are not hopeful of pursuing education or going after their dreams as they are prepared for marriage. They are taken through the day-to-day responsibilities of girls within their families and communities. However, their determination and desire to change their communities have led them to actively engage in the Manyatta-Homeschooling program, where they have gained basic writing and reading skills.?

Consolata, Karuan, and Brenda’s determination and desire to change their communities led them to actively engage in the Manyatta-Homeschooling program, where they gained basic writing and reading skills. As a result of their commendable academic progress, their fathers unbeaded them, which set them free from harmful cultural practices and allowed them to transition to formal education and pursue their dreams.

Karuan and Brenda dream of becoming doctors to help their community, whereas Consolata wants to become a teacher and contribute to increasing literacy levels in Baragoi. Both girls understand that education allows girls to be independent, wise, and, most importantly, better themselves and their communities. It will enable them to pursue their dreams and become successful representatives of what girls can achieve.

These stories exemplify the transformative power of education and the importance of initiatives like the Manyatta Homeschooling Program in breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. Let us celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 by investing in and uplifting the voices of adolescent girls who are challenging norms, defying expectations, and shaping a more equitable future for themselves and their communities.

By Vivian M. Kwame , communications associate- digital.?