The Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZI), represented by its Executive Director, Lydia Madyirapanze, and Programme Manager, Nqobile Nkiwane, participated in the official launch of Phase II of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) O3 PLUS Programme, held in Bulawayo on 27 March 2026.

FAWEZI is delighted to enter a new strategic partnership with UNESCO under O3 PLUS Phase II programme. We appreciate the thrust of this initiative, which focuses on creating a sustainable and enabling environment for students in tertiary education. This collaboration directly aligns with FAWEZI’s ongoing work with Higher Education Institutions, where we remain committed to promoting gender-responsive environments and ensuring that young women have the support needed to thrive academically and personally.

Targeting 52 tertiary institutions across all 10 provinces in Zimbabwe, the partnership will leverage existing institutional structures and resources to:

• Promote safe, inclusive, and health-promoting tertiary institutions.
• Integrate SRHR, GBV prevention, and STEM awareness in tertiary education.
• Empower young women and men through gender-transformative approaches.
• Leverage peer education, digital tools, and role models.
•  

As FAWEZI continues to advance its mandate of promoting gender equity in education, this strategic alliance with UNESCO under the O3 PLUS Phase II Programme represents a significant and timely step towards ensuring that tertiary institutions serve not only as centres of academic excellence, but also as inclusive spaces that uphold the dignity, safety, and potential of every student.