Dear FAWEZI Community,
As we reflect on the period from October to December 2024, I’m grateful for the amazing progress FAWEZI has made, thanks to the strong support from our partners and stakeholders. These months have been filled with teamwork, impactful activities, and efforts to improve education and promote gender equality in Zimbabwe.
This quarter saw significant progress with the rollout of several engagement activities under the Second Chance Pathways for Increased Access to Tertiary Education for Marginalized Young Women and Men Program supported by the Forum for African Women Educationists and the Mastercard Foundation, the initiative held a stakeholders’ sensitization meeting in Gweru, introductory meetings with five state universities including, Bindura University of Science Education, Lupane State University, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences, and Midlands State University as well as strategic discussions with the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science, and Technology Development to align efforts with national goals.
Under the Transforming Adolescent Girls Opportunities through STEM and Skills Development Project, FAWEZI in partnership with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education with support from UNICEF conducted a second round of gender-responsive pedagogy training for teachers from Epworth and Hopley project schools.
The Towards Resilient Communities Health and Equity for All (TORCHES) Project advanced its efforts through key initiatives, including the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Kick Out Child Marriages, Kickstart Education Girls Soccer Cup, aimed at raising awareness on school-related gender-based violence, child marriages, and drug abuse. FAWEZI facilitated a dialogue with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Chitungwiza District to strengthen collaboration and coordination between the Victim Friendly Unit (VFU) and other police departments. This initiative ensures survivors receive quality services even during VFU closures. The platform also served to refresh participants’ skills in customer care, docket compilation, scene attendance, and evidence collection.
During this quarter, the organization participated in Rural Women’s Day commemorations in Mutoko and World Teachers’ Day celebrations in Gokwe North, focusing on expanding educational opportunities for marginalized youth. In collaboration with Harare Polytechnic and with support from FAWE and the Mastercard Foundation, FAWEZI hosted a panel discussion aimed at empowering girls and fostering a more inclusive future. The event, guided by accomplished role models in STEM and TVET sectors, offered a platform for young women from tertiary institutions and high schools to share their experiences, accomplishments, and aspirations. Discussions ranged from exploring careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to addressing critical issues such as sexual exploitation and abuse. These forums amplified the voices of girls and young women, fostering a global conversation on equitable education.
As we conclude another productive year, FAWEZI remains steadfast in its mission to transform education and advocate for the rights of girls and women. The journey ahead is filled with opportunities to extend our influence and enhance our impact. We are eager to build on this year’s achievements and continue working together to create a future where every child’s potential is fully realized.
On behalf of FAWEZI, I express profound gratitude to everyone who has supported our work. Your contributions have been instrumental to our progress. Together, we will continue driving meaningful change for girls and women across Zimbabwe.
Lydia Madyirapanze
Executive Director, FAWEZI
Menard