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Djigui – A Second Chance for Education in Burkina Faso

The word “djigui” means hope. All over the world, education holds the promise of hope for a better life. Yet even today, nearly 70 percent of Burkina Faso’s population is unable to read or write. A good three-quarters of children enter elementary school, but only half finish. Education is inadequate, and it fails to take into account the needs of the local job market. Many young people move to the cities or take a dangerous job working in an illegal gold mine.

Since 2013, the Djigui project has given children and young people between the ages of 9 and 20 a second chance at an education. Those who have completed little or no schooling are now able to acquire a basic education at a non-formal educational center. They can then either return to the formal school system or begin vocational training.

The program focuses on matching the interests and needs of young people with opportunities in the local job market.

The Djigui project has been supported by the Jacobs Foundation since its beginning, and it is implemented by HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation in close cooperation with local authorities and the national ministries with responsibility for education.