An innovative model for transforming education

Concrete and transformative results

Through a holistic and inclusive approach, the ÉDUFAM project has achieved significant progress:

• 25,000 girls, adolescents, and women received tailored support, including refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities.
• 2,800 out-of-school girls enrolled or re-enrolled in school.
• 24 schools transformed into gender-responsive environments with adapted infrastructure and safe spaces for girls.

1,073 women strengthened their income-generating activities, contributing to family economic independence and continued education.

An exemplary community mobilization

The success of the ÉDUFAM project is based on its innovative model that places communities at the heart of change. Key achievements include:

• The signing of social contracts that engaged local leaders and families in removing barriers to girls’ education.

• Over 1,700 awareness sessions strengthening knowledge of girls' rights and breaking down gender stereotypes.

• 97% of girls and women in the targeted areas now participate in education governance mechanisms, a significant increase since the beginning of the project.

More results in the ÉDUFAM project impact report (in french)

Towards a promising future

The ÉDUFAM project has demonstrated the full potential of a holistic and inclusive approach to overcoming barriers to girls’ and adolescents’ education. By mobilizing communities, adapting school environments, and strengthening the skills of girls, women, and local stakeholders, it has fostered lasting and profound transformations.

The impact goes far beyond the numbers. It reflects a shift in mindsets and a collective awareness of the right to education and gender equality. This collaborative and community-driven model now serves as an inspiration for other initiatives.

This is why the ongoing FIERES project (Girls and Resilient Education) in Mali is already building on lessons learned from the ÉDUFAM project to develop interventions adapted to its own context. This continuity shows that the impact of the ÉDUFAM project extends beyond its initial regions of intervention and lays the foundation for lasting structural change in promoting girls' and adolescents' education.

With the support of their local and international partners, the Paul Gérin-Lajoie Foundation and CECI will continue to promote inclusive models to strengthen the empowerment of girls and women and reduce inequalities through accessible and quality education.

ÉDUFAM project impact report (french)

Learn more about the FIERES project