Our Mission

Access Education Trust Fund (AETF) is committed to transforming the lives of Somali girls through equitable access to quality education. We believe that educating girls is one of the most powerful investments for advancing gender equality, strengthening communities, and driving Somalia’s long-term social and economic development.

Working in partnership with development partners and the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education (MoECHE), AETF delivers safe learning environments, qualified teachers, quality learning materials, and innovative education solutions that enable girls to thrive.

The Challenge

Somalia faces a severe education crisis. Prolonged conflict, poverty, displacement, and gender-based discrimination have left over 3 million children out of school—most of them girls. Young women aged 15–35 are particularly vulnerable, with limited access to education, skills, and economic opportunities.

Without urgent and targeted support, the future of an entire generation of Somali girls remains at risk.

 

Our Response

AETF is a grassroots, community-based organization currently implementing a holistic skills training program for 600 young women, combining:

  • Foundational literacy and numeracy
  • Market-relevant vocational skills, including Childcare, Community Health Work, and Entrepreneurship
  • Life skills, guidance, and mentoring

Demand for our programs continues to grow, but limited resources restrict our ability to scale and reach more girls in need.

 

Our Goals

With donor support, AETF aims to:

  • Expand barrier-free, safe, and inclusive education for girls
  • Increase enrolment, retention, and completion rates
  • Equip girls and young women with relevant skills for employment or higher education
  • Strengthen the capacity of female teachers and school staff
  • Improve school hygiene, sanitation, and menstrual health support
  • Provide scholarships and bursaries to girls from disadvantaged backgrounds

Our Impact Vision

Our mission is to educate, equip, and inspire Somali girls to reach their full potential and become confident leaders, skilled professionals, and positive contributors to their communities and the nation.

By investing in girls’ education today, donors help build a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Somalia tomorrow.

Partner with us. Invest in girls. Transform Somalia.