Empowering Sudanese Refugee Girls through Human Rights Education in Uganda

In the refugee settlement of Kiryandongo, Uganda, a circle of young girls is earnestly engaged in a classroom discussion centered around rights, dignity, and justice. This pioneering initiative, supported by Education Cannot Wait, represents a significant advancement for Sudanese girls who have fled conflict and now seek to redefine their futures through education.

A Unique Educational Approach

Launched in August, the program orchestrated by Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) and the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) provides comprehensive human rights education specifically tailored for uneducated Sudanese refugee girls aged 11 to 18. The curriculum is designed not only to impart knowledge but to offer psychosocial support and mental health resources, thus addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by these young girls.

The initiative recognizes the plight of girls forced from their homes due to the ongoing violence in Sudan, which has displaced nearly 14 million individuals and vastly disrupted their education. Moreover, it seeks to combat alarming rates of gender-based violence, a grim reality in conflict zones that these girls now navigate in Uganda.

Program Implementation

During the initial pilot sessions, 25 girls engaged in three days of intensive learning, delving into themes like human rights, gender equality, and the dangers of gender-based violence. These discussions were not theoretical; many participants shared their personal experiences, revealing the harsh realities of their existence and the urgent need for advocacy within their communities.

One participant expressed a deep desire to apply the knowledge gained, stating, "We are eager to finish this training program and contribute to the well-being of our community." This sentiment reflects their shared ambition to transform learning into actionable change.

Sustainable Leadership Development

To ensure the longevity of the program, LAW and SIHA focused on sustainability by training 10 instructors, including seven women, to pass on the curriculum to over 175 additional girls in Kiryandongo. In mid-October, full sessions began, with the initiative entering its second phase in November, which aims to empower selected participants to become active agents of change within their communities.

These young leaders are now working on advocacy strategies that address crucial issues such as girls' education, child marriage, and gender-based violence. The initiative positions them as spokespeople for their fellow refugees, fostering a network of advocates who can lead efforts to break cycles of violence and exclusion.

Overcoming Barriers to Education

In Uganda, obstacles to education are pronounced for many Sudanese girls, with less than half enrolled in formal education programs. Limited resources and educational opportunities exacerbate this problem. Thus, this initiative plays a critical role in supporting girls to navigate these challenges, providing outreach and advocacy that connects them to local educators and educational resources.

A Bright Future Ahead

As articulated by a young girl involved in the program, "I learned that education is a right and a powerful tool for empowerment. I plan to return to school next year. With the knowledge I've gained, I hope to raise awareness among other girls in my community about their rights."

With the right support, these young girls are poised to transform adversity into leadership, advocating for their rights and those of their peers. As Education Cannot Wait continues to champion this vital cause, the futures of these young women can indeed become brighter, marked by resilience and empowerment in the face of uncertainty.