Changing gender norms to support girls' education and empowerment? The progress and challenges of Girls' Clubs in primary schools in Ethiopia

This text explores the role of Girls' Clubs in addressing gender norms and promoting girls' education in Ethiopia. The government's education reform program aims to create safer and more accessible schools for female students through the establishment of Girls' Clubs. The paper draws on interviews and discussions with teachers and student members of Girls' Clubs. While progress has been made, the analysis reveals limitations in terms of financial resources and institutional support, hindering the desired impact on girls' education and empowerment. The paper suggests allocating more resources to Girls' Clubs and reforming the institutional context, including involving boys in the clubs and providing appropriate training for supporting teachers.