As you all know, my projects over the past 2 years here in Senegal have spanned many sectors of development. One area where I see a great need is basic education. Lack of educational attainment prevents people from obtaining many of the best jobs and perpetuates a cycle of poverty. Even where families want their children to finish primary and secondary school, they are often under pressure to pull them out in order to work. This is especially the case for young girls, who shoulder a disproportionate amount of household tasks. The resulting gender gap is stark and contributes to society-wide gender inequity.

Together with other Volunteers, I am helping to raise the $10,000 it will take to fund this program for more than 400 girls nationwide. While this may sound like a lot, remember that for a contribution as small as $10, you can help one of these girls stay in school for another year. The cost for the entire program in my community is just $200, and any funds raised above this target will be used to support the program in other schools and to fund follow-up activities to further empower these young women. To make a tax-deductible contribution, follow the link below.
I truly think basic girls’ education is one of the most pressing issues in development. Research has shown that advancements in education, particularly for girls, lead to faster economic growth, smaller and healthier families, reduced rates of HIV transmission, and more equitable and democratic communities. As leading economist Lawrence Summers puts it, “...investment in girls' education may well be the highest return investment available in the developing world."
Check out Peace Corps/Senegal's website about the scholarship for more information and pictures: http://senegad.pcsenegal.org/scholarship.html
Thanks for your support!!
Hello Danielle,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Scott Jorgensen and I am a Peace Corps volunteer in Gambia. I live in Wallalan, which is very close to Farafenni. I am right on the border with Senegal and I was wondering if PC has any Senegalese volunteers reasonably close to me. I think that you are the closest. Is there anybody else in the region too? What village are you in? I am in a Fula village, and in my 8th month of service. I am in Farafenni right now for one of those madly busy internet sessions that don't happen often enough. I'm officially not suggesting a trip across the border (against rules, you know). Not yet, anyways.
Hope to hear from you soon,
Scott