The state of girl’s education and violence: the case of the Manhiça District

This article presents the results of a study carried out in Manhica District, Maputo province, Mozambique in the framework of the ‘Stop Violence against Girls in School’ project. The study aimed, amongst others, at (i) eliciting accurate data and identification of current trends and patterns of violence, discrimination and inequalities in education and girl’s lives in Manhica District, and (ii) identifying perspectives and finding out experiences of girls, boys, communities and key stakeholders in relation to problems of violence, discrimination and gendered inequalities. Specifically, this article discusses the state of girl’s education and violence taking into account gender aspects and inequalities. Fifteen primary schools were surveyed and key informants included pupils, teachers, head teachers, school management committee members, community leaders, women group leaders and District officials from education, health and police. The findings indicated that, while physical violence is more often perpetrated in schools, psychological and sexual violence happen more often in homes and villages, with girls as the main victims of violence in comparison to boys. The study concludes that violence and inequalities are still affecting girls and children seldom report cases of violence they suffer. Further conclusions indicate that, although the Government has been issuing relevant legislation to protect women and girls, their implementation is still wanting. The study recommends a holistic approach in contesting and reporting violence against girls in schools through improving dialogue mechanisms between community stakeholders, District officials and justice systems to ensure protection and support for girls. The study was carried out between June and July 2009 and the final report was prepared in January 2011.