In rural Ethiopia, long distances to school and financial pressures can prevent girls from continuing their education and increase the risk of early marriage.
The Underhill Scholarship Scheme, implemented by our partner the FDA-E, helps address these challenges by providing rural girls with stipends, school uniforms, academic support, mobile phones with solar chargers, and access to our training centres, Toby’s House and Prudence House, so they can live closer to their secondary school.
Addressing menstrual dignity is also an important part of this work, with hundreds of schoolgirls receiving high quality reusable sanitary pads, as well as hygiene and well-being training, to support consistent school attendance throughout the academic year.
The impact extends beyond education. Graduates from the programme are now attending university, becoming role models within their communities and building careers in sectors including banking, healthcare and academia. Many are also supporting their families and helping younger siblings continue their education.
Supporting women and girls to access education creates opportunities for families and communities as well as individuals. By working alongside local partners and communities, we aim to strengthen long term outcomes for women and girls through improved access to education, greater independence and increased opportunities for future generations.