Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The MarBen Foundation has inaugurated Mar-Bridge Academy, a free alternative school aimed at reintegrating girls into the education system, in a way to tackle out-of-school girls in Taraba State.
The academy, founded by rural education advocate Dorcas Elisha, opens with the mission of offering a second chance to girls who have been forced to abandon their education due to early marriage, teenage pregnancy, financial hardship, and other barriers.
“The school was in response to an experience she had while teaching in a public school.
“The school runs Three core programs: Edu Access, Skill Up, and Level Up with each one catering for the specific needs of students at different stages of their education.
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“Three years ago, I taught basic computer skills to students in a rural secondary school. I noticed a girl sitting quietly, wearing an oversized cardigan. She was silent, her eyes teary as she looked out the window while her classmates laughed.
“I was later told she was pregnant and would no longer be allowed to attend school. That experience highlighted the pressing need for a safe educational space where girls like her could continue learning without fear of shame or discrimination.
“Mar-Bridge Academy has been designed to give these girls, and others like them, the skills and confidence to build a sustainable future. Today, we have many girls who have fallen victim to this situation forced out of school, rejected by family and they are trapped in a cycle of poverty. To help break that cycle we must be intentional about empowering girls.
“We are committed to changing the narrative of using what you have to get what you want. We want to teach girls that their body is not the only thing they have. They can acquire skill sets and be excellent in that.
“Through the Edu Access programme, girls receive foundational academic training that prepares them for reintegration into formal schools, at an age-appropriate level, in as little as three months.
“We’ve structured this programme with flexibility in mind, supporting girls regardless of how long they’ve been out of school,” Dorcas explained.
“For those looking to build financial independence, the Skill Up programme equips students with both technological and vocational skills. Our goal is to show these girls that their bodies are not their only asset. By developing skills and expertise, they can build a path to financial self-reliance.
“The Level Up programme provides mentorship and personal development opportunities, focusing on building self-confidence and soft skills essential for success beyond the classroom,” she said.
Speaking at the launch event, Engineer Auta, the local Mai Anguwa, expressed gratitude on behalf of the community.