The Elimu ni Jibu project, which means “education is the answer,” meets the increasing demand for education in the Democratic Republic of the Congo while recognizing multiple and localized challenges. More than two decades of conflict in the Eastern Congo and the recent Ebola epidemic have decreased access to education and the quality of instruction. Despite these challenges, communities continue to value and prioritize education.
Funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the project takes a gender-equitable and socially inclusive approach to addressing children and youth’s interconnected needs for academic and social-emotional skills, safe and supportive relationships, stable routines and a responsive community. Elimu ni Jibu uses primary and secondary humanitarian data to define zones as at risk, mixed or stable. Within these zones, the project delivers tailored and responsive formal and nonformal education services as well as child protection and economic development activities that support safe access to learning.
Throughout the project, Elimu ni Jibu will reach more than 200,000 children and youth and 6,000 teachers. The project has begun operations in Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu and plans expansion into new areas such as Haut Uele, Kasaï, Kasaï Central and Tanganyika, based on needs assessments and safe access.
FHI 360’s partners include the International Rescue Committee and Viamo, who bring global and country-specific technical, operational and management expertise.
