Evaluation of Biruh Tesfa (Bright Future) for All: A program for out-of-school girls, migrants, and domestic workers in low-income Ethiopian cities
Outcomes: Women’s Economic Empowerment
View SourceKey Social Norms Take-aways The study highlights the importance of shifting social norms around education, gender roles, and child protection to improve outcomes for highly vulnerable urban girls in Ethiopia. Biruh Tesfa effectively engaged communities to increase girls’ school attendance and reduce harmful practices, especially around early marriage and household labor expectations. It shows that norm change is possible through community involvement, mentorship, and linking families to se…
Objectives To assess the impact of Biruh Tesfa for All, a multi-component program designed to improve the well-being and life opportunities of vulnerable urban girls aged 7–18 in Addis Ketema and Akaki-Kality subcities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods The evaluation used a mixed-methods design including qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys with beneficiaries, caregivers, mentors, and local officials. Baseline and endline comparisons were made to assess changes in education, safety, social support, and family dynamics. The study incorporated analysis of program data and contextual documentation.
Intervention Details Biruh Tesfa for All provided educational support (e.g., school materials, catch-up classes), life skills and SRHR training, access to child protection services, and mentoring for girls. The program worked closely with community groups, schools, and government stakeholders to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and shift harmful norms about girls’ roles and rights.
Results The program improved girls’ confidence, educational participation, and access to services. Caregivers reported greater support for girls’ schooling and decreased tolerance for violence and early marriage. Mentors played a critical role in modeling positive behaviors and challenging norms around girls’ mobility and household responsibilities. Community awareness efforts led to broader shifts in perceptions about what girls can achieve.
Conclusions Multi-sectoral, community-based interventions like Biruh Tesfa can shift harmful norms and improve outcomes for vulnerable girls. Programs that combine education, mentorship, and norm-focused advocacy with service linkage and community engagement can build supportive environments for girls to thrive.
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