Education

Just 39% of young girls and boys in Ethiopia are literate, and girls face additional barriers to finishing primary education.  Without a strong foundation of literacy skills, children struggle throughout their education, live in poverty and see their potential hampered.  In the communities where we work, a lack of books and educational resources and insufficiently trained teachers are barriers.  Debo has addressed these challenges with ongoing projects including awarding scholarships to over 200 outstanding high school and college students, establishing 8 kindergarten classrooms, 2 libraries and science laboratories in village schools, and providing tutorials in chemistry, biology, English and computer at Debo’s library/learning center.

TUTORIALS

To improve literacy skills and encourage the habit of reading for all students in the communities we serve, Debo has implemented after school tutorial programs in English, computer skills and chemistry.  In addition, Debo sponsors competitions to encourage students to achieve outstanding results.

Award programs

Debo encourages academic excellence by giving awards to students who excel in their studies throughout the school year. 

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Science Fair

Debo sponsors annual science fair competition to encourage students to create and demonstrate their science proficiency.

Scholarship programs

Students in rural communities often terminate their studies after middle school due to financial hardships.  Debo awards scholarships to outstanding high school and college students to allow them to continue their education.  We have provided scholarships to more than 200 students.

Library/Learning program

​Debo built a 3000-square foot library in a small village with 16,000 residents, creating an environment attractive to both youth and adults, who enjoy visiting the library and making use of the resources and services offered. 

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Kindergarten Classrooms

Pre-school attendance among Ethiopian children is below 40%.  By the time most of these children start school, they are well beyond their formative years, a period that is most critical for learning.  To create the opportunity for children to thrive in primary school education and beyond, Debo has established sixteen kindergarten classrooms.