In 2021, Geneva Global’ Speed Schools faced significant challenges as schools in Uganda remained closed for the entire year, in response to COVID-19. To combat loss of learning time, Geneva Global Uganda implemented a community-based home learning strategy for Speed School pupils, helping 5,573 students return to learning, with 84 percent qualifying for transition to the government’s Grade four classes. Meanwhile, in Ethiopia, a micro-class strategy during lockdowns allowed over 97 percent of Speed School students to complete their year, leading to new partnerships and funding from UNICEF and Education Cannot Wait to expand into crisis-affected regions like Afar and Somalia. Education.org recognized the Speed School program as a leading example of Accelerated Education Programs, emphasizing its effectiveness and successful government adoption.
Abdechafi Boubkir joined Geneva Global as the Director of Programs to provide leadership for Geneva Global Ethiopia. Media coverage in Uganda and Ethiopia highlighted the program’s impact, while the Oromia Regional Education Bureau engaged Geneva Global to launch 106 government-funded Speed Schools to support over 1.4 million children left out of school due to the Tigray conflict. As we move forward, Geneva Global remains committed to ensuring every child has access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.