Executive Summary
This report presents findings from a six-year evaluation of Geneva Global Inc.’s Speed School program in Ethiopia, conducted by the University of Sussex Centre for International Education. The Speed School initiative, launched in 2011, provides accelerated learning to out-of-school children aged 9–14, enabling their reintegration into government schools after just ten months of instruction.
The longitudinal study tracked students who completed the program in 2012 through the expected end of their primary education in 2017. The evaluation compared Speed School graduates with peers in two types of government schools to assess long-term outcomes in school completion, academic performance, and attitudes toward learning.
Key Findings:
- Higher Retention: 75% of Speed School students remained in school by 2017, outperforming peers in government schools (66%) and Link Schools (60%).
- Academic Gains: Speed School students scored significantly higher in math, Sidama, and English compared to non-Speed School peers.
- Lasting Impact: Even students who dropped out after Speed School outperformed government school dropouts, showing residual academic benefits.
- Stronger Motivation: Graduates showed greater confidence, stronger aspirations, and more family support in continuing education.
- Improved Household Conditions: Wealth among Speed School families improved significantly more than others during the study period.
- Gender Barriers: Girls cited domestic chores and early family responsibilities as key reasons for dropout, highlighting the need for targeted support.
Recommendations:
- Provide additional support for Speed School students at risk of dropping out, especially overaged learners.
- Offer vocational training for older students and dropouts to reduce dropout risks.
- Ensure sustained investment across all components of the program: inclusive pedagogy, self-help groups, and government teacher support.
The Speed School model shows compelling evidence of long-term educational benefits and increased resilience among vulnerable children in Ethiopia.