No Girl Left Behind: Advancing Adolescent Girls’ Education in Ethiopia

Abstract

Adolescent girls in Ethiopia face persistent barriers to education, including sociocultural norms, economic constraints, and political challenges, particularly in rural areas. While enrollment has improved, issues such as early marriage, gender-based violence, and weak policy enforcement continue to hinder progress. Urgent action is needed through gender-responsive policies, community engagement, and stronger legal frameworks to ensure girls’ safety and keep them in school. Collaboration among government, civil society, and grassroots organizations is crucial for creating an inclusive education system that empowers girls and secures their right to learn. This brief highlights key challenges and recommendations to improve adolescent girls’ education in Ethiopia, drawing on evidence from the political economy analysis of the Inspiring Girls and Grassroots Networks for Inclusive and Transformative Education (IGNITE) consortium project.