LHRC and Malala Fund have partnered to provide girls' education in Bagamoyo, aiming to empower future generations.
In July, the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) made a significant visit to the Bagamoyo District Council offices in the Pwani region. Ally Seif Ramadhani, Program Officer for the Youth and Human Rights Clubs Program Unit, represented LHRC and was warmly welcomed by District Executive Director Shauri Selenda. Selenda expressed gratitude for LHRC's long-standing commitment to educating the public on legal and human rights issues through children’s and youth clubs in schools.
The visit aimed to provide education and motivation on key issues such as law, rights, leadership, gender, and sexuality. These efforts are designed to strengthen youth clubs and enhance their ability to advocate for and protect children's rights and welfare across the country.
In collaboration with the international organization Malala Fund, LHRC introduced a new project titled "Girls' Education for a Better Tomorrow." This initiative will be implemented in two schools within the Bagamoyo District Council: Hassanal Damji Memorial Secondary School and Dunda Secondary School. The project focuses on empowering fifty female students by addressing issues related to reproductive health and gender-based violence. By providing educational support and fostering academic growth, the initiative seeks to eradicate child marriages in Tanzania and contribute to the overall well-being of young girls. Vanessa Kiango, the Project Officer, highlighted that this is a nine-month project aimed at making a lasting impact.
During the visit, LHRC provided vital education to both secondary and primary school students in the Bagamoyo District. The students were informed about government guidelines that offer opportunities for those who have dropped out of school due to various reasons, including truancy and pregnancy. Ally Seif Ramadhani emphasized that education is a fundamental right for all students and highlighted a government guideline allowing pregnant students to return to school after giving birth.
"The government's guideline provides an opportunity for children who have dropped out of school due to various challenges, including pregnancy among girls, with the aim of continuing their interrupted dreams," said Ramadhani.
Additionally, the Youth Officer educated students on their rights and the laws that protect them, emphasizing the importance of upholding these rights both at home and in school. This outreach is part of LHRC's ongoing efforts to promote and protect the rights of children and ensure they have the opportunity to pursue their education and dreams.