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Zamfara AGILE Program Scales Up Efforts to Educate Marginalized Girls

The Zamfara Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) has laid out its strategy for the second year of its alternative education program, building on the successes and insights gained from its first year. The initiative, which focuses on providing educational opportunities for girls and young women who face barriers to formal schooling, recently held a meeting with stakeholders to discuss progress and future plans.

During the gathering at the AGILE state office in Gusau, Hajiya Sa’adatu Abdu Gusau, the State Coordinator, reflected on the accomplishments of the past year. She highlighted the increase in enrollment and retention rates among girls and young women across Zamfara, crediting the collaborative efforts of all involved. She stressed the importance of continuing this teamwork to achieve even greater results in the coming year.

Dr. Yahya Alhassan, in his presentation, explained that the alternative education component is designed to reach girls who have been excluded from traditional schooling due to challenges like poverty, early marriage, insecurity, or disabilities. The program offers a flexible, community-based approach that combines basic education with practical skills such as vocational training, digital literacy, and health education—ensuring learners are equipped for both personal and professional growth.

The first year saw significant milestones, with nearly 1,900 girls completing the program. Many transitioned into further education or vocational paths, while others continued with additional learning cycles. Looking ahead, AGILE plans to scale up its efforts dramatically, aiming to enroll over 19,000 new learners in Year 2—a substantial increase from the initial 2,500. To support this expansion, 80 new vocational centers will be established, supplementing the existing 20 that served the first cohort.

The initiative remains committed to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for marginalized girls, ensuring they have the tools to build brighter futures. With continued collaboration and community engagement, AGILE hopes to make an even greater impact in the years to come.