Women and girls often face significant barriers that hinder their access to and completion of secondary education, this is particularly true in refugee and host communities.  JRS is dedicated to providing gender-responsive education programmes that create safe, secure, and protective learning environments for forcibly displaced girls and young women. Access to quality education means allowing them to shape the lives they aspire to—enabling them to thrive and advocate for their rights. 

Ruba Abas, 19, and Ayor Athian, 20, arrived at Kakuma refugee camp in 2013 and 2016 respectively. Today, both are enrolled in two of the seven secondary schools run by JRS within the camp.  

Ruba Abas, 19 years old, student at Greenlight Secondary School 

“Education is important because it opens people’s minds. It also empowers girls to stand up for their rights.” 

Ayor Athian, 20 years old, student at Kakuma Refugee Secondary School 

“Education is important because it enables you to interact with people from different nationalities. It can also be life-changing. For example, once you complete your studies, you can look for a job, which may help both you and your family.”