Save Her Seat: Helping girls in Tanzania to stay in school and thrive

In Tanzania, the right to education is a critical issue for many young girls, but Right To Play’s Save Her Seat project is helping vulnerable girls to stay in school and thrive.

Launched in April 2023 and funded by the UK government through UK Aid Match, and generous donations from the public and the Liverpool Football Club Foundation, the project is helping thousands of girls overcome barriers to education and develop essential life skills.

Across 40 primary schools in the Serengeti and Tarime districts of northern Tanzania, more than 8,600 children – over half of whom are girls – are participating in play-based learning sessions that foster skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. Additionally, 1,116 girls are taking part in Girls’ Clubs that focus on building self-confidence and autonomy, while 100 teachers have been trained in gender-responsive teaching methods, equipping them to deliver safe and inclusive learning environments.

In many communities in Tanzania, girls face significant obstacles that can stop their education in its tracks and limit their life opportunities. Unequal treatment, societal norms, harmful practices, and issues such as early marriage can prevent girls from attending school and determining their futures. But our Save Her Seat project is making a life-changing difference to girls and breaking down these barriers.

In the first year of the project, the number of girls demonstrating critical life skills has doubled, and more girls feel safer at school. The number of girls who report that their parents or caregivers support their right to an education has also increased from 40% to 69%, which is a huge step in addressing gender barriers and bringing about long-term change.

Thanks to our supporters, the Save Her Seat project is empowering girls to learn, lead and succeed. Girls are acquiring lifelong skills, asserting their rights and embracing opportunities, helping them to grow and reach their full potential. With your support, they are taking control of their futures.