Improving Education in Mali Mine Communities

The Improving Education in Loulo Mine Communities project improved student retention and performance in school, especially that of girls, by strengthening the education system in Mali and increasing community support for learning.

From 2013 to 2022, the project:

Improved learning outcomes for 34,664 students

To improve learning outcomes, we worked to enhance classroom instruction and mobilize parents and community members around learning. By presenting school results analysis at community events, like Academic Merit/Excellence Days, students became more engaged in their learning success.

Increased engagement around education in 17 communities

We supported communities in organizing meetings to solicit input from school management committees, parent-teacher associations, mothers’ associations, and local education administrators. We built the capacity of these groups to manage their various roles and responsibilities in decentralized education.

Enhanced gender and social inclusion

We addressed gaps in inclusivity through teacher training on gender equity and inclusion, community awareness-raising on the importance of girls’ education and inclusive education, and capacity building of mothers’ associations. These interventions targeted the needs of all children and focused on increasing school attendance. 

Built sustainability by strengthening local partners

Our partners at all levels, including local NGOs, grassroots community structures, and the Ministry of Education, received capacity building support to ensure the project’s sustainability. Mothers’ associations have been especially successful in improving education, taking ownership of project activities, and managing savings funds. 

Improved instructional practices for 1,530 teachers

To ensure best practices in reading and mathematics instruction, we trained 30 pedagogical advisors to support teachers. Training focused on methods and techniques for remedial learning and the use of math teaching tools. We also trained pedagogical advisors and school principals on teacher observation tools and established communities of practice for teachers to share best practices and lessons learned.

Through this project, we learned that strong community mobilization around education increases access to quality education, whether it’s by providing financial support from mothers’ associations, organizing remedial learning programs, or encouraging enthusiasm for learning through community events.