THE GIRL EQUATION: Keeping Girls in Class

In Jos, Plateau State, where 65% of girls drop out before completing primary school due to poverty, early marriage, and social norms that favor boys’ education, "The Girl Equation: Keeping Girls in Class" is an initiative of Girls Education Mission International in collaboration with the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB) aim to break these cycles by strengthening community and school accountability systems that keep girls enrolled, supported, and thriving.

This community - driven initiative targets 15 schools across Jos, focusing on girls aged 10–18 who are at risk of dropping out. It engages key influencers, parents, caregivers, headteachers, local and religious leaders, government officials, mentors, and media personalities - to drive behavioral and systemic change.

The project introduces a multi-layered approach: headteachers’ performance indicators (KPIs) include tracking girls’ attendance; School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) meet monthly to review attendance and progress; and Quality Assurance Officers ensure follow-up on absenteeism. A toll-free reporting line allows the public to report out-of-school cases, while community radio, ringback tunes, and school dramas amplify positive narratives about girls’ education.

Through Change Network Meetings, local and government leaders reinforce policy enforcement and accountability. Meanwhile, I Am Possible Girls Clubs and mentorship programs nurture girls’ confidence, leadership, and school persistence.

Expected Outcomes:

90% of absenteeism cases identified and followed up through improved monitoring systems.

60% rise in positive community attitudes toward girls’ education and stronger policy enforcement.

75% of mentored girls retained in school after one year.

Long-term Vision:

A Jos community where every girl’s right to education is protected and celebrated — where families, schools, and leaders share responsibility, cultural norms uphold girls’ learning, and local mentors inspire the next generation of educated, empowered young women.