Niger has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing early marriages and promoting gender equality through its “Couple Schools” program.
This initiative encourages dialogue between married couples, focusing on women’s rights, family planning, and reducing violence against women.
By providing education and resources, the program is making significant strides in reshaping societal norms and offering solutions to some of the country’s most pressing challenges.
The “Couple Schools” aim to educate both men and women on the importance of mutual understanding within marriage.
This unique program operates under the supervision of respected traditional leaders who host awareness sessions in diverse locations such as schools, community centers, markets, and even open tents.
These sessions are designed to highlight the role of individuals in building successful marriages, with a strong emphasis on the shared responsibilities between partners.
One of the key aspects of the program is educating men on family planning and women’s rights.
By encouraging husbands to embrace the principles of equality, particularly in the areas of child education and inheritance rights, the initiative fosters more balanced and respectful family dynamics.
Additionally, the program highlights the dangers of child marriage and the devastating consequences of violence against women—issues that are often overlooked in the traditional social fabric of Niger.
With Niger’s fertility rate among the highest in the world, at 7.6 children per woman, the “Couple Schools” initiative faces the challenge of educating communities in remote areas.
To address this, there are currently around 200 schools, some of which are mobile, aiming to reach rural villages. Expansion plans are underway in regions like Maradi and Tahoua.
In addition to educational efforts, the schools offer counseling services for pregnant women and promote family planning practices.
The program encourages women to visit healthcare centers to reduce maternal deaths associated with home births and non-use of contraceptives.
The success of the initiative relies heavily on selecting qualified educators.
Teachers must be married men who have demonstrated success in family life, with a commitment to supporting women’s roles in society.
Teachers are also required to be at least 25 years old and must serve as moral examples for the community.
Operating on a cooperative model, the “Couple Schools” involve shared responsibilities among members.
The Ministry of Health and local NGOs provide logistical support, while women’s associations help facilitate communication with the female population and address their concerns.
In just three years, the “Couple Schools” have shown tangible results.
There has been an increase in healthcare visits, a heightened awareness of family planning, and a notable reduction in violence against women.
These positive outcomes demonstrate the initiative’s success in changing traditional behaviors and improving the lives of families in Niger.
