Restoring Hope Through Education: Voices from The Liberated Girl (TLG) 2026 Review Meeting (1st quarter)

Education becomes truly transformative when communities are heard, involved, and empowered. This belief came alive during The Liberated Girl (TLG) Project Review Meeting, which brought together 156 participants, including school heads, parents, traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders, to reflect on progress, share lived experiences, and strengthen collective ownership of the project. The meeting created a safe and interactive space for honest conversations about what is working and what still needs improvement. Parents, in particular, spoke passionately about the positive changes they are witnessing in their children. Many reported noticeable improvements in reading, writing, confidence, and overall academic performance changes that they directly linked to the TLG Project. “Before now, my child could hardly read well, but I can now see improvement in her writing and confidence,” one parent shared. “This program has brought hope back to our homes,” another added. Participants emphasized the importance of shared responsibility in sustaining these gains. Parents were encouraged to take a more active role by regularly checking their children’s exercise books and engaging with their learning at home. School proprietors were also called upon to strengthen monitoring and supervision, as consistent oversight was seen as a strong motivator for teachers and a pathway to better learning outcomes. Beyond academics, the conversation expanded to long-term family sustainability. COEC’s Programs Officer challenged parents to plan intentionally for their families’ futures through responsible decision-making, livelihood planning, and continued commitment to their children’s education, highlighting that lasting educational impact is closely tied to stable households. The meeting also surfaced critical operational challenges. A representative from St. Pius Magamiya raised concerns about inadequate support from school management, particularly the lack of instructional materials for teachers. Additionally, some schools reported difficulties using newly renovated or constructed WASH facilities due to limited access to water. While these challenges were acknowledged, stakeholders were reassured that solutions are being explored, especially to ensure water supply for the WASH facilities so they can be fully functional and serve their intended purpose. Despite these gaps, gratitude filled the room. Parents, school heads, and community leaders expressed deep appreciation to Community Outreach for Educational Change (COEC) and the Jean F. Herskovits Foundation (JFHF) for the investment in education and WASH infrastructure. “Our children are now learning in a cleaner and safer environment. We are truly grateful to COEC and JFHF,” a community leader noted. The TLG Review Meeting was more than an assessment—it was a reminder that sustainable change happens when communities, schools, and partners walk together. The insights gathered will guide future improvements, deepen stakeholder engagement, and strengthen COEC’s commitment to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and lead. Together, we are not just supporting education—we are restoring dignity, confidence, and hope. COEC: Educate, Empower, liberate!!!