Success and Challenge of Girls’ Living Quarters: the Case of Southwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the success and challenges of Girls living quarters in the southwestern Ethiopia. To see this, data were collected from the beneficiary and non-beneficiary students, teachers, the donor representatives and the custodians with open and closed ended questionnaires, interview and focus group discussion methods. Then the data were analyzed through percentage and qualitatively. Results show that the girls living quarters create access to education, increased enrollment rate, increased academic performance, give security and create favorable learning environment to attend their education. On the other hand, the areas that need improvement in the hostel include administration, learning materials, vocational skill trainings, recreational center and food service. Thus, it is advisable that for better functioning of the living quarters the woreda education officers and other concerned bodies should strive to help the living quarters have independent administration, provide food services for the students, provide adequate, relevant and need based vocational trainings, and avail necessary educational materials for girls learning.