In 2022, Nigeria was hit by some of the worst floods this decade has seen. Over 2.8 million people have been displaced, the majority of whom are from low-income, often rural backgrounds. This displacement forces girls out of school, increases their unpaid care responsibilities, and exposes them to homelessness. With a scholarship, our partners can offer girls who have been impacted by flooding the chance to rebuild their lives and gain new opportunities through education and vocational training.
Women and girls from underprivileged backgrounds tend to be the most affected by the negative consequences of natural disasters. In Nigeria, the severe flooding is likely to exacerbate the gender poverty gap that already exists, as the loss of infrastructure makes it less likely girls will return to school, and exposes them to homelessness, violence, and exploitation. Ultimately, this flooding can prevent girls from accessing education, finding good job opportunities, and leaving poverty.
With her home and livelihood destroyed by the floods, a scholarship to a vocational training school can transform a girl's life, and give her the resources to exit poverty. Students who attend vocational training with our partner organisations go on to secure well-paid jobs in the hotel, tourism and catering industries, and/or to start their own businesses with the skills that they have learnt. Over the years, close to 100% of graduates have secured good employment within months of graduation.
Providing a girl with education and the skills to find good work not only improves her own well-being, but that of her family and community. Overtime, these girls will become financially-independent women, with an understanding of their own value and agency. They are more likely to educate their own daughters, and break the cycle of poverty for their families.
