Education for AIDS orphans

The project goal was to reduce the vulnerability of AIDS orphans and vulnerable children through schooling and vocational training in seven communities in Nigeria for a one year period. The initiative was accompanied by food aid to the beneficiaries and an AIDS prevention program.

105 orphaned and vulnerable children received one year of schooling, including school supplies and uniforms. 94% (99 children) passed their end of year exam. 60 youths, often the heads of their families, received vocational training in trades as diverse as tailoring, hairdressing, welding or computing, together with the necessary equipment for their chosen activity. An AIDS awareness program was conducted at their schools and 80 students were trained to relay information and maintain AIDS awareness. The youths’ families also received additional food to provide them with a sufficient level of nutrition.

The Gede Foundation has been active in Africa since 2002. Its mission is to promote healthy communities by developing the individual’s health potential through education and access to services.

105
orphans

Type

Education

Duration

March 2010 - February 2011

Location

Nigeria

With whom

Gede Foundation

Website

www.gedefoundation.org/s

Nigeria

Population
191 million (2017)

Per Capita Income
USD 2,100/year (2017)

Poverty rate *
46%(2010)

Literacy rate
51% (2016)

Human Development Index
157th out of 189 countries (2018)

Nigeria is the most populated country in Africa with a population of 191 million, accounting for close to half of the West African population. Despite the country's strong economic track record, its human development indicators are poor. Persistent poverty affects more than half the population; 103 million Nigerians live below the poverty line. Youth literacy rates improved from 64% to 67% between 2000 and 2016, though the rate appears to have reached a plateau. Primary school enrolment rates are estimated at 94% and secondary school rates at 56%. Since 2014, insurgent activities have deepened insecurity, hampered development and heightened the food and nutritional insecurity of vulnerable women and children.

Sources: World Food Program, UNICEF, World Bank, 2016 Human Development Report, Human Development Indices and Indicators (2018 Statistical Update)

*The percentage of the population living below the national poverty line.