In Uganda, the question of girls’ education goes far beyond enrollment numbers—it is a battle to change mindsets, dismantle systemic barriers, and reimagine a society where every girl has the opportunity to thrive. Through our collective advocacy and community-focused initiatives, WLEDE has been at the forefront of a broader call: ensuring the retention of girls in schools and fostering a culture that values their education.

Rewriting Narratives Through Community Engagement

For decades, societal perceptions have undermined the value of educating girls. Early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and gender biases have kept many out of school. WLEDE’s approach to changing this narrative has been rooted in dialogue and education. Through community meetings, training sessions, and partnerships with local leaders, we have fostered an understanding of why educating girls is not only a human right but a critical investment in the future.

These efforts have sparked ripple effects in communities where, previously, sending girls to school was viewed as futile. Today, parents, teachers, and local leaders are becoming champions for girls’ education, advocating for policies and programs that support their retention.

Strengthening Systems to Support Girls

Changing mindsets also requires changing systems. Across the regions we serve, WLEDE has advocated for practical solutions to keep girls in school. From pushing for menstrual health education and provision of supplies to advocating for gender-responsive infrastructure, such as separate toilets with pad-changing rooms, we’ve addressed the root causes that force girls to drop out.

By collaborating with schools, communities, and local governments, we have worked to make education spaces safer and more inclusive for girls. This includes tackling issues of bullying, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence through awareness campaigns and policy advocacy.

Building Confidence and Leadership

Education is not just about attendance; it’s about empowerment. Our initiatives have focused on instilling confidence and leadership skills in young girls. By connecting girls with mentors and creating platforms for them to speak about their challenges, we have helped shape resilient individuals who believe in their own potential. These efforts not only help girls stay in school but also enable them to become role models in their communities, inspiring others to follow the same path.

A National Call to Action

The results are clear: when communities value girls’ education, the cycle of poverty, early marriages, and social exclusion begins to break. Yet, this work is far from complete. Uganda needs a unified, multi-stakeholder approach to ensuring that every girl remains in school.

WLEDE’s broader call is for nationwide mindset change, rooted in practical action. This includes replicating successful community-driven initiatives, creating gender-responsive educational policies, and holding institutions accountable for implementing reforms.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The journey to keeping girls in school is long, but the impact is undeniable. Each girl who stays in school represents a brighter, more equitable future—not just for herself, but for her family, community, and country. WLEDE remains committed to this vision and invites you to join us.

Let’s build a Uganda where every girl’s education is seen as a cornerstone of progress. Together, we can create a legacy of empowered girls, thriving communities, and a transformed society.