We work in politically marginalised areas which have been badly affected by HIV/AIDS. There are high numbers of orphaned children, high social and economic deprivation, poor infrastructure, high unemployment and weak government service delivery. Dropout rates in some rural primary and secondary schools are as high as 15% for males and 20% for females. Secondary enrolment rates remain low, especially for girls and orphaned children who face the biggest barriers to accessing a full education.

Our project works by providing educational bursaries for our orphans, girls and disadvantaged young people to access good quality education. We will also add value by providing extra holiday tuition, sexual health education and rights awareness workshops, support work experience placements and training, and work to reduce menstruation-related absences. Collectively, these efforts endeavour to improve school attendance and performance. Many former beneficiaries are now living independent lives.