Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation, a non-governmental organization protecting and promoting rights of girls, in partnership with the Ministry of Education has launched the training of 200 Peer Mentors across seven districts under the Gender for Development Uganda (G4DU) Project.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap in access to lower secondary education for adolescent girls living in poverty in the seven district of Oyam, Kitgum, Lamwo, Adjumani, Yumbe, Madi Okollo, and Nebbi in Acholi, Lango and West Nile sub regions.
Implemented by Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation, the UNICEF-funded G4DU Project targets vulnerable adolescent girls and its core mission is to enhance access to inclusive, protective, and responsive quality education while ensuring girls transition to and complete lower secondary school.
The program utilizes a cash-plus-mentorship approach, addressing critical barriers that hinder girls' access to education and essential services. This model is further reinforced through strengthened referral mechanisms that support teenage girls' educational and protection needs.
During the launch of the peer mentor training in Gulu, TMF Executive Director, Joyce Atimango underscored the program's potential to reduce the financial strain on parents and caregivers. Under the project, each vulnerable girl—including those who are orphaned, disabled, or refugees—will receive UGX 264,000 to facilitate their education journey.
"This initiative is designed to break the cycle of poverty by keeping girls in school. By empowering adolescent girls through education and mentorship, we are setting the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future," said TMF Executive Director, Joyce Atimango.
One of the Senior Woman Teachers, who participated in the training commended the program's potential impact:
"As a Senior Woman Teacher, I am committed to ensuring that girls stay in school by identifying those with challenges and guiding them through their struggles. This program will greatly reduce the number of girls dropping out of school," Ms Auma Polline from Atwal Secondary School in Oyam District.