LEARNING HUTS FOR ADOLESCENT GIRLS

The purpose of the learning huts is to provide a safe space for girls 10-19 years of age to obtain learning support after school from females, and also be kept safe from sexual and gender-based violence.

Why is it important?

The prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, especially rape, is very high; and the incidents are largely affecting girls below the age of 19. Many girls have only male teachers which leaves them vulnerable, and girls may not want to ask their male teachers for help with learning. In addition, most girls in Liberia stay out of school during their menstruation and almost all of them do not have access to sanitary pads, information on SGBV and others.

How do the Learning Huts help the adolescent girls?

The adolescent girls get learning support guided by the government curriculum. They get help with homework with a focus on Maths, Science and English. They also get educated on their bodies as it relates to menstrual hygiene, SGBV, PSEA and child labor. They are taught by a female teacher and also have a female social worker who counsels them once a week. They also get educational materials such as notebooks, pencils, pens, calculators, and geometry sets.

Who does this work? 

The Development Brokers is an NGO that is implementing a Social Movement for Change project that is targeted at getting communities to engage in their own development and take care of their children. The community provides the building, identifies the female teacher and 30 girls; and TDB provides the rehabilitates and sets up the hut. There are currently 60 girls benefiting from the 2 learning huts; with a plan to expand to reach 1000 girls.

What can you do?

You can help us establish 30 Learning Huts. For the girls who are currently enrolled, you can help with school supplies, learning support, clothes, shoes, after school games and toys; as well as items that can be used for their Christmas parties 

The Problem: In Liberia, young women experience extreme frequency of physical and sexual violence

According to the United Nations, 35% of Liberia's female population between ages 15-49 have been the victim of such violence within the last 12 months. By this measure, Liberia is the 7th most dangerous country in the world for women.

According to the UN, only 42 percent of Liberian female students complete secondary school.

Gender-based inequity and violence against young women in Liberia is often exacerbated by the school system

1. Teenage girls are often victimized by teachers at schools with all-male staff

2. Girls are stigmatized from attending school during their menstrual cycle

Both factors discourage girls from attending school, thriving while there and seeking the academic help they need to be successful. According to the World Bank, Liberia ranks 177th out of 188 countries in the Gender Inequality Index.