In an effort to promote inclusive education and empower adolescent girls, the Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe Chapter (FAWEZI) recently organized a sensitization event in Shamva District. The aim was to educate out-of-school adolescent girls and pupils about Zimbabwe’s Education Amendment Act and Policy Circular P35.

The focus was on re-entry into the formal education system for out-of-school adolescent mothers and pregnant girls who had since dropped out.

The Education Amendment Act, enacted by the Zimbabwean Government, seeks to address various challenges faced by the education sector and ensure equal access to quality education for all children. Policy Circular P35 focuses explicitly on promoting gender equality and empowering girls through education.

The event, held at SIYA, brought together representatives from FAWEZI, educational authorities, teachers, and community leaders. The participants engaged in interactive sessions, discussions, and presentations to raise awareness about the importance of education and the provisions outlined in the Education Amendment Act and Policy Circular P35.

During the one-day event, FAWEZI emphasized the significance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering girls to become agents of change in their communities. They highlighted the rights of every child to receive an education, regardless of their gender or socio-economic background.

pupils listening attentively at the event

The discussions also shed light on the specific provisions of the Education Amendment Act, such as establishing inclusive schools, providing free primary and secondary education, and promoting safe learning environments. Participants were encouraged to familiarize themselves with these provisions and advocate for them within their communities.

pupils, out-of-school adolescent mothers & community leaders during the event

Furthermore, Policy Circular P35 was discussed extensively, focusing on its objectives to eliminate gender-based in schools, promote gender-responsive teaching methodologies, and provide support systems for pregnant and parenting students.

At the close of the sensitization, attendees acknowledged the importance of collaborative efforts between stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and community leaders, to ensure that every child, especially girls, receives a quality education. They left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to create an inclusive and equitable educational environment for all children, paving the way for a brighter future for Shamva District and beyond.

Menard