Experiences and impact from participating in Education Support Program/ Education Support Unit

Abstract

Education is a fundamental human right and an investment in human capital that benefits individuals, families, communities, and nations. It influences various aspects of life, including attitudes, behaviour, health, income, and overall well-being. Access to education breaks the cycle of poverty by increasing employment and income opportunities. However, poverty and the lack of a supportive learning environment hinder educational attainment, especially in underprivileged families globally. Africa, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa, faces significant educational challenges, with low completion rates and high dropout rates. In Tanzania, the education system includes seven years of primary education and six years of secondary education. Despite compulsory and free primary education, issues such as insufficient infrastructure, poor policy implementation, and lack of political will affect the quality of education. The Education Sponsorship Program (ESP) and its successor, the Educational Support Unit (ESU), aim to increase the number of educated youths in the Tanga region of Tanzania. This program, supported by donors, provide financial and material support to vulnerable children, including orphans and those from low-income families, to help them attend and complete their education.