For over 25 years the Colour Sisterhood has been a strong advocate for the empowerment of girls and women in all walks of life; championing their value, worth, identity and purpose.
There is an overwhelming amount of research that indicates that when girls are given the same access to educational opportunities as boys, they have an enormous capacity to bring positive change to their families, communities and nations.
According to the UNICEF, “Girls who receive an education are less likely to marry young and more likely to lead healthy, productive lives. They earn higher incomes, participate in the decisions that most affect them, and build better futures for themselves and their families.
Girls’ education strengthens economies and reduces inequality. It contributes to more stable, resilient societies that give all individuals – including boys and men – the opportunity to fulfil their potential.”
But education for girls is about more than just access to school. It’s also about them feeling safe and supported in their classrooms and school environments.
Many girls drop out simply because they can’t afford feminine hygiene products or the fees to go to school.
In response to this issue, Watoto has been working alongside local schools in Uganda and South Sudan to reduce the dropout rate among adolescent girls. Over the years, Watoto has been able to expand their reach and are now partnering with 65 schools and assisting over 7,300 schoolgirls.
The Colour Sisterhood has contributed generously over the years to the work of Watoto and other organisations and once again the Hillsong Colour Sisterhood was able to contribute to Watoto Child Care Ministries ‘Keep a Girl in School’ initiative, with $130,000 going to helping over 10,000 girls stay and participate in school by providing them with basic feminine hygiene products, like sanitary pads, underwear and bars of soap, giving them a very tangible gift as well as hope for the days ahead.
Watoto’s Country Director for Australia and New Zealand said “This really is a huge, practical blessing to Watoto and especially to the girls who will be the recipients of it… As Uganda starts to open up after a protracted lockdown, the need to help the girls of Uganda and South Sudan experience and see the fruit of staying in school is even more vital.
The Keep a Girl in School programme is maximising the potential of girls, revealing dreams and empowering them to help in rebuilding their respective nations.”
May 17 2024
