Some of the main achievements this year are highlighted :

• 324 girls achieved minimum learning levels, of which 84 were enrolled into Government schools for main stream education.

• Through the village enrolment drive, 142 children were registered with formal schools for their basic education.

• 76 health and education video performances were shown to schools within the project highlighting :

  • Values of basic education

  • Enrolment of girls in schools

  • Health and sanitation

  • Sexual health.  At the same time young girls with problems were identified, counselled and services provided.

• Immunisation campaigns and 8 medical camps were conducted through the villages with collaboration from Primary Health Centres of Government providing medical services.

• Education for 280 parents in health and hygiene and practical help to give them protect ion from water borne and other preventible diseases.  Also demonstrations were given on sanitation and personal hygiene resulting in adoption of preventive measures for families and their communities.

• Village councils which were formed last year have been further strengthened.  They are becoming increasingly effective in dealing with the issues surrounding female children, basic education, sanitation and health work and utilisation of government programmes.

• A further 14 SHGs were formed, holding regular meetings and increasing / regularising savings.  The groups have also been providing support in the villages on issues of rights to education and women rights.  All SHGs pledged to send their children to school.

• Bank links established last year have gained strength resulting in 4 SHGs obtaining bank loans and subsidies in order to support small business and create income generating activity.