Kelem Ethiopia is strengthening the quality of education through its Enhancing Education Quality Improvement (EQUIP) project, a comprehensive school-based initiative designed to improve learning outcomes and strengthen school systems in 12 schools in Kombolcha City Administration and Kalu Woreda. The project focuses on teachers training, laboratory and learning material support, student tutorial programs, and supporting gender clubs to promote peer-to-peer learning.
The integrated interventions are contributing to improved teaching and learning practices, better student performance, increased student motivation to attend school, and strengthened teacher morale in applying a variety of teaching methodologies.
At Gerba Secondary School, students and teachers shared their appreciation for the positive changes introduced through the project
Hands-on Learning through Laboratory Support
Hayat Adem, a Grade 10 student, was attending a chemistry laboratory session when the Kelem Ethiopia team visited the school. She explained that practical laboratory sessions have significantly improved her understanding of chemistry concepts.
“Learning through practice makes the lessons exciting,”
said Hayat. She added that before the support, students learned chemistry only through theory. “Now I can see the chemicals, their colors, and how they react when mixed. Learning through practice makes the lessons exciting and helps me understand better.” She added.
Habib Assefa, a chemistry laboratory teacher, emphasized the importance of the donated chemicals and laboratory equipment.
“Previously, we were teaching only theory because we did not have chemicals and laboratory materials. It was difficult to explain the nature, types and reactions of chemicals to students. After receiving laboratory support, we are now able to conduct many experiments. Students are very motivated to attend laboratory sessions, and their exam results have improved. I am very happy with this support, and I am also learning a lot,” he said.
According to the recently updated project data, improved science labs enabled schools to conduct most experiments, with over 90% student participation, showing strong use of hands-on learning.
Strengthening Teachers’ Capacity for Quality Instruction
A key component of the EQUIP project is strengthening the capacity of teachers and school leaders through training in the 21st-century pedagogical skills. The training has enhanced teachers’ professional knowledge and restored motivation by introducing practical approaches to effective teaching and learning. Project internal data shows that teaching quality has improved significantly, with 77.8% of teachers showing good to excellent performance, surpassing the 75% target. This progress reflects increased use of learner-centered methods, active learning, continuous assessment, and inclusive practices, leading to better student engagement.
The training focuses on the new curriculum, active learning strategies, differentiated instruction, assessment and evaluation methods, technology integration, and overall teacher quality improvement.
Gebre Medhin Gedey, Deputy Principal of Gerba Secondary School,explained how the training transformed classroom practice.
“Before the training, teachers used only a few teaching methods. After the training, we learned a wide range of approaches and how to apply different teaching methods in the classroom. The change it brought to teachers is truly significant,” he said.
With support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and #TERRA Projekte International e.V., Kelem Ethiopia continues to improve education quality through a comprehensive school-based approach. During the project implementation in 2026, the EQUIP Project achieved strong progress by strengthening teaching, leadership, student support, resource use, and stakeholder engagement in schools across Kombolcha City and Kallu Woreda.
Author – Hassina Ousman
