In the deprived communities of Biro and Gombile (both in Lawra in the Upper West Region of Ghana), an incredible story of hope and transformation is unfolding. Eighteen young girls from these very deprived areas – where poverty often silences dreams before they can even begin – are now preparing to go to Senior High School (SHS). Thanks to the timely intervention and support of Action Through Enterprise (ATE).
For years, many families in Gombile and Biro have struggled to meet even their most basic needs. In such deprived communities, education, especially for girls, is often less of a priority to survival. Some parents simply cannot afford uniforms, textbooks, or even the basic provisions required for their children to remain in school. As a result, many brilliant girls with lots of potentials are often forced to abandon their education, their dreams overshadowed by poverty.
However, ATE is changing the narrative. Through our SHS Girls Project, we have for the past five years (since 2021) given full educational support to girls in these two deprived communities, ensuring that financial barriers no longer stand between these girls and their dreams. Today, a total of 18 girls were supported to go to Senior High School. The package included educational materials and all the necessary supplies that they need to help them transition.
For the girls, this support means more than just an opportunity to learn- it is the re-ignition of hope and a promise of a brighter future. Some of these girls are the first in their families to go to SHS, which makes it even more incredibly inspiring.
Some incredible quotes from some of the girls are:
“My father is late and mom blind and jobless. I never thought I would one day go to SHS because of my family’s financial situation. Now I have more hope for my future” – Agnes.
“My plan after JHS was to learn dressmaking (not continue with my education). I never imagined myself proceeding to SHS because I had no one to take care of my educational needs. My dad is late and my mom has no job. ATE has re-ignited my hopes for a better future” – Catherine
“My dad is late. My mom is but just a peasant farmer. It would have been challenging for her to see me through SHS. With the support from ATE, I feel more confident and comfortable about going to SHS now that.” – Ruth
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- Agnes
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- Ruth
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- Catherine
The support reflects our commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. By focusing on girls from deprived backgrounds, we are not only empowering individuals but also transforming the entire communities. As these 18 girls pack their bags and prepare for a new academic journey, they carry with them not just books and uniforms, but renewed hope – hope that education can re-write their stories and lift their communities out of deprivation.
By Kakpe Kuube-Isaan