On October 18th, the FAWE Regional Secretariat led an insightful collaborative visit to FAWE Ghana’s offices, bringing together a diverse team dedicated to advancing the Phase II project. Joining the Regional Secretariat were representatives Calvin Okello from FAWE Uganda, Musiime James from FAWE Rwanda, and Mastercard Foundation alumni Bridget and Marie. The purpose of this gathering was to foster cross-chapter learning, share key experiences, and lay the foundation for a strong implementation of Phase II initiatives

During the visit, the team engaged in a series of productive discussions with FAWE Ghana’s new project team, focusing on valuable lessons learned from Phase I and innovative approaches for Phase II. Key discussion points included:
1. Best Practices from FAWE Uganda and FAWE Rwanda: The teams from Uganda and Rwanda shared their successes from the initial phase of the Scholars and HEAP (Higher Education Access Program) programs. These best practices included strategies for building student resilience, fostering community involvement, and creating effective monitoring systems.
2. Strategies for New Chapters: The visiting team offered guidance on strategic planning for new chapters, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches to meet local needs. The focus was on establishing strong community relationships and ensuring project continuity for maximum impact.
3. Foundational Elements for Success: The discussion underscored essential elements for a successful project launch, including team training, establishing clear objectives, and strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders. These foundations are expected to empower the Ghana team as they move into Phase II implementation.
4. Alumni Experiences and Impact: Mastercard Alumni Bridget and Marie shared their personal journeys from Phase I, reflecting on how the project supported them in overcoming barriers to education and professional development. Their experiences provided tangible insights into the positive impact of the Scholars program and its ability to transform lives.
5. Lessons Learned and Areas for Improvement: A candid exchange on lessons learned highlighted areas where improvements can be made to enhance program effectiveness. The team discussed strategies for managing challenges, boosting student engagement, and refining administrative processes for streamlined execution.
6. FAWE Ghana’s Phase II Update: The FAWE Ghana team presented an overview of their current progress and the challenges they are facing in implementing Phase II. This session allowed the visiting team to gain a deeper understanding of the context in Ghana, enabling them to offer tailored support and actionable recommendations.

A detailed report will soon follow, outlining these discussions and key action points that emerged from the meeting. This collaborative effort represents FAWE’s commitment to ensuring that each chapter receives the support needed to drive sustainable impact in girls’ education across Africa. By building on shared experiences and best practices, FAWE Ghana is well-positioned for a successful Phase II rollout, helping to empower even more young women through education and opportunity.