Millions of Tanzanian children do not gain a secondary education or vocational training. Instead of enrolling in school, many of them resort to child labor, often in exploitative, abusive, or dangerous conditions, in violation of Tanzanian law, to supplement their family’s income. Girls also face many challenges on account of their gender. Less than a third of girls that enter lower-secondary school graduate. Many of them are exposed to widespread sexual harassment by teachers. Many also face sexual exploitation and abuse by bus drivers and adults who often ask them for sex in exchange for gifts, rides, or money, on their way to school. Research showed that high numbers of girls become pregnant as a result of rape, sexual violance and coercion. Due to those circumstances they are forced to drop out of school.

There are plenty of arguments why girls and women should be educated. Many studies show that education is the key to break the vicious circle of poverty, especially girl’s education. They learn how to defend themselves from sexual harassment, discrimination and abuse by taking legal precautions. According to research by UNICEF, educated women have a greater chance of escaping poverty, leading healthier and more productive lives and raising the standard of living for their children, families, and communities.

Ikunda’s mission is to make favorable changes for young women by facilitating proper education at villages of Tanzania. Encourage and support in the fight against unequal rights in the local society.

The best way to achieve this:

• Proper education
• High quality teachers
• New schools
• Psycho-social help