Since 1993 in Ethiopia, the Population Council has worked with adolescent girls and young women, and the men and boys in their lives. The Council conducts population-based surveys and qualitative studies to generate reliable data about the lives of young people in Ethiopia. These data have been instrumental in shaping national and international policies and programs for young people in Ethiopia and globally.

In particular, the Council has generated evidence and innovated evidence-based approaches to reaching child domestic workers, girls at risk of forced, child marriage and migrant girls. Over the years, the office has engaged over 100,000 of the most marginalized rural and urban girls to participate in girls’ clubs with mentors in safe, public places.

The programs are rigorously evaluated and have reflected demonstrable success in delaying marriage, improving mental health, improving literacy and numeracy, increasing knowledge about HIV and reproductive health and improving use of health services.

The Council’s award-winning programs have received international attention and been cited as best practices by leaders such as Former First Lady Michelle Obama, Melinda Gates and the Elders, among others.

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