Empowering Girls in Burundi: The Role of School Aunties in Education

In the community of Rugombo, located in Cibitoke, a remarkable woman named Josephine is making a significant impact on the lives of young girls. As a community mentor, or "school auntie," Josephine's goal is to ensure that more girls continue their education. Her work is part of a larger program funded by Education Cannot Wait (ECW) and implemented by World Vision Burundi, aimed at providing crucial educational support in crisis-affected areas.

Josephine represents a traditional Burundian approach to education, offering emotional and academic assistance reminiscent of a second parent. Her role is especially vital in addressing the various challenges faced by girls as they navigate their teenage years, ensuring they feel supported and empowered. The program she works with, known as the "Komezawige Program," translates to "Continue Learning" and is designed to promote educational continuity for children affected by ongoing crises in Burundi.

In a country where economic difficulties, early pregnancies, and societal pressures often hinder girls' education, Josephine serves as a beacon of hope. The stigma surrounding menstruation has historically made it difficult for girls to seek support. Many young women have felt embarrassed, leading to absenteeism due to a lack of adequate menstrual hygiene products. However, thanks to Josephine's efforts, this taboo is being challenged.

"In the past, girls who got their period during school had no adult to turn to for help or advice," Josephine explains. This lack of support has caused emotional distress and, unfortunately, led some girls to drop out of school altogether. To combat this, Josephine organizes conversations around menstruation, inviting boys to participate and understand that teasing or mocking girls during their periods is completely unacceptable. This initiative not only improves the emotional well-being of girls but fosters a culture of respect and inclusion in schools.

Jeanine, a 14-year-old student, states, "Whenever I feel uncertain, I reach out to Josephine, and I feel supported by her advice." This reflects the essential role that such mentors play in creating a safe environment for dialogue and support.

The challenges facing the youth in Burundi are substantial. With half of the population under the age of 18, many young people experience poverty and struggle to access quality education. Traditional gender roles often dictate that girls are responsible for household chores, while boys bear the pressure to contribute financially, sidelining educational pursuits.

The impact of climate change, political unrest, and poverty compounds these issues, significantly affecting children's abilities to return to school. In answer to these pressing challenges, ECW announced a catalytic grant in Burundi in late 2021, which encompasses various initiatives such as hiring and training teachers, enhancing schools' resilience to disasters, constructing classrooms, and providing school meals.

A notable feature of Josephine's program is the distribution of reusable cloth pads, known as Dignity Pads, which help remove barriers to education for girls. Jeanine shares, "I received five reusable Dignity Pads, and I feel supported, which encourages me to continue my studies." For girls like her, having access to these hygiene products is essential; it allows them to attend school regularly without fear or interruption.

The school aunt and uncle program currently involves nearly 500 volunteer psychosocial helpers dedicated to supporting students. While the aunties focus on empowering girls, the uncles provide guidance to boys on reproductive health, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making to prevent early pregnancies. This holistic approach addresses the needs of all students, especially those lacking support outside of school, creating a safe space for learning.

For many, including Jeanine, education is more than just academic achievement; it is an opportunity to thrive in a nurturing environment. Josephine's dedication to her role exemplifies the profound difference that one person's commitment can make in the lives of others. As the program continues to flourish, it holds promise for many more girls, helping them navigate the challenges of adolescence while pursuing their educational dreams.