Education is more than just lessons and exams – it’s a lifeline for many communities, a beacon of hope for a brighter future. My recent visit of 20 school libraries across Eswatini revealed a tapestry of challenges and unwavering resilience, as students, teachers, and communities strive to create nurturing environments against formidable odds.
While the Girls Empowerment Program (GEP) school library project had planted the first seeds of transformation, much work remains. Many schools have a small selection of books, lack essential materials, and a librarian. Teachers spoke candidly about the challenges they face: overcrowded classrooms with students that walk for miles – many without breakfast, outdated library books, leaky classroom and library roofs, lack of funding resources for new programs such as the hygiene and sanitary packages, lack of bookshelves, tables and chairs in the classrooms and library, lack of digital resources such as laptops or tablets, and overextended staff.
With support of the teachers, hygiene and sanitary packages are distributed discreetly to girls in need to prevent absenteeism during menstruation. Other student challenges include substance abuse, elevated dropout rates, pregnancies, drug trafficking and the need for mental health support.
Throughout Eswatini, the dedication to advancing education remains evident despite persistent challenges. Educators consistently assume multiple roles; students often travel considerable distances to access learning opportunities; and communities demonstrate strong collective support. However, there is an ongoing and significant need for libraries, updated educational resources, mentorship programs, mental health services, improved hygiene facilities, and nutritional assistance. The Girls Empowerment Program (GEP) has made a positive impact thus far, and its reinstatement holds the potential to further enhance educational outcomes—benefiting schools, individual learners, and entire communities.
The upcoming International Day of the Girl Breakfast events, scheduled for October 15th, 2025, in Toronto and October 10th, 2025, in Edmonton, serve as pivotal fundraising initiatives dedicated to advancing the Girls’ Empowerment Programs (GEP). Join Crossroads International in making a tangible difference and sustaining the momentum toward educational equity
Tsitsi Ettienne, Eswatini Program Support Advisor
