Better Schools for Girls - Ivory Coast and Benin

Challenge

Violence towards children performed by the educational staff is widespread in Sub- Saharan Africa. In Cote d'Ivoire and Benin students are regularly subjected to physical violence at school. They physical disciplinary measures, verbal violence, daily insults, threats, mockery and sarcasm. Girls are particularly affected, with ingrained prejudices, discriminatory and exclusive behaviours played out in various forms of violence, pushing girls out of school early and affecting their achievements.

Solution

Better School for Girls is teaching a better way of teaching. We are workiing with teachers, school counsellors, directors and the education departments in Ivory Coast and Benin to give teachers the skills to value girls and provide them with every opportunity to thrive. Our program teaches emotional competencies, inclusive and non-violent teaching methods. We provide teachers with support, tools and exercises to ensure all students, specially girls are safe and valued at school.

Long-Term Impact

Ensuring that girls can complete their schooling in a safe and inclusive environment is one of the most impactful investments. Girls who complete school are healthier, have children later and better planned, are able to earn a decent living and contribute more effectively to family life and society. By developing a culture of peace through education, embedded into all our projects, Graines de Paix is driving change that will see greater equity, less poverty and less violence.

Resources

• http:/​/​www.grainesdepaix.org/​en
• Graines de Paix