Education is an essential cornerstone for individual and societal advancement, offering a countless of benefits that extend well beyond the classroom. The assertion that every child deserves the right to an education is grounded in the conviction that education is one of the most effective avenues to escape the cycle of poverty. In an increasingly interconnected world, access to knowledge and skills empowers children, enabling them to secure better opportunities and improve their overall quality of life.
Moreover, education equips children with the tools to challenge systemic poverty. It enhances their potential for employment, promotes critical thinking, and instills values of social responsibility. When children are educated, they are more likely to contribute positively to their communities.
The primary objective of our education programme is to enhance the lives of extremely impoverished children in a sustainable manner, particularly by improving their access to quality primary education and supporting their overall well-being. The Afar Cluster, a strategic initiative led by Edukans, embodies this goal through its collaboration with Kelem and the Afar Pastoral Development Association (APDA). This partnership minimizes the duplication of efforts, facilitates resource sharing, and fosters synergy, all aimed at achieving common educational objectives.
Formed to promote quality basic education, the Afar Cluster aims to contribute to the socio-economic transformation of the region and the nation as a whole. The implementation of this project, which took place in the Chifra and Addar districts, was made possible through the generous funding from ICCO Cooperation and the Edukans Foundation of the Netherlands.
Key activities within the project included the construction of fully equipped Alternative Basic Education Centers, the expansion and upgrading of existing centers, and the provision of essential furnishings and scholastic materials. Additionally, the programme incorporated both short-term and long-term in-service training for educators, alongside various awareness-raising workshops for communities and stakeholders.
With an overall investment of €400,000 over five successful years, the project was ultimately handed over to local governments upon its completion. This transition ensures the sustainability of the educational initiatives, enabling the schools established through this project to continue operating effectively while reaching an increasing number of children and adults for years to come.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of the Afar Cluster not only underscore the importance of quality education but also demonstrate a sustainable model for improving the lives of the most vulnerable populations. Through strategic partnerships and a comprehensive approach to education, we are paving the way for lasting change in the Afar region.
Box 41575
Torhayloch
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
