Improving Learning Opportunities and Outcomes for Girls in Africa: Findings of the 2013 Echidna Global Scholars

On December 12, the 2013 cohort of Echidna Global Scholars presented their research findings at an event hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at Brookings.  The Echidna Global Scholars program gives researchers from developing countries the opportunity to spend four months in residence at Brookings.  This year’s scholars included Madalo Samati from Malawi, and Adefunke Ekine and Judith-Ann Walker from Nigeria, all of whom focused on research projects that addressed the challenges  girls face while seeking education in their respective home countries.  

The event was opened with an introduction by the Ambassador of Malawi Steve Matenje, with the Echidna Scholars then presenting their research on the role of culture as a barrier or opportunity for education, ways to engage girls in science, and the role of education in preventing child marriage.  A panel discussion with the scholars followed, moderated by CUE Associate Director and Associate Fellow Xanthe Ackerman.

The research findings from the Echidna Global Scholars can be found in working papers published in a volume entitled Improving Learning Opportunities and Outcomes for Girls in Africa.  The working papers presented in this volume shed light on the barriers to girls’ education and propose policy recommendations that build on achievements in gender parity in West Africa, Nigeria and Malawi. 

CUE is now accepting applications for the Echidna Global Scholars Program for 2014. The deadline to apply is January 5, 2014.  Please click here for more information or to apply.  

To learn more about the program and read about our former scholars, please click here or e-mail globalechidna@brookings.edu for additional information.