The African Students Education Support Initiative (ASESI) is dedicated to supporting African children in accessing quality education and raising awareness for accountability and good governance among public officeholders in Africa. Our mission is to ensure that every African child has the opportunity to receive a quality education and understand the value of education, accountability, good governance, and the rule of law.
Education is a fundamental human right and a crucial factor in the development of a nation. In many parts of Africa, access to education remains a significant challenge due to various socio-economic barriers. At ASESI, we are committed to breaking these barriers and creating opportunities for every child and youth to thrive through education.
Leadership and Inception
Executive Leadership
Chinonso Obasi, our Executive Director, is a youth leadership development consultant, the Principal Partner of Star Trust Consulting, the Pioneer President of the Nigerian Youth Union(NYU), and the former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students(NANS). He resumed work at the ASESI Head Office on September 24, 2018, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for youth development.
Mr. Obasi believes in correcting the status quo and securing the future of youths and students. He speaks at seminars and conferences, transforming negative youth indulgences into positive norms. His cooperative consulting services to agencies that deal directly with youth and students’ mandates exemplify his commitment to this cause.
Importance of Strong Leadership in Educational NGOs
Strong leadership is essential for the success of educational NGOs. Effective leaders inspire their teams, foster innovation, and drive meaningful change. According to [UNESCO, leadership in education involves setting a vision, creating a supportive environment, and managing resources efficiently to achieve educational goals. Mr. Obasi’s leadership at ASESI reflects these principles, ensuring that our initiatives are impactful and sustainable.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Partnership with National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
Our team has also forged a significant partnership with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). During a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, we discussed strategies for quality service delivery in education. This partnership aims to leverage NOUN’s extensive resources and expertise to improve educational access and quality across Nigeria.
Revive Africa Initiative (RAI)
Collaborations with like-minded organizations amplify our impact. One such partnership is with the Revive Africa Initiative (RAI). Mr. Ugagaoghene Ogheneyole, Director General of RAI, visited the ASESI Head Office, leading to a positive outcome that enhances our service delivery to the needy in Africa. This collaboration exemplifies how strategic partnerships can drive collective efforts to address educational challenges.
Legislative Advocacy
Advocating for educational policies and reforms is a critical aspect of our work. Prof. Joy Onyeisi, representing NOUN at the National Assembly, and our Executive Director, Mr. Chinonso Obasi, participated in a presentation at the House of Representatives. ASESI’s role in supporting NOUN during this presentation highlights our commitment to influencing educational policy for the betterment of students nationwide.
Importance of Educational Policy Advocacy
Educational policy advocacy ensures that the needs and rights of students are represented at the highest levels. According to the Federal Ministry of Education effective policy advocacy can lead to reforms that improve educational access, quality, and equity. ASESI’s involvement in legislative advocacy underscores our dedication to systemic change.
Impact on Girl Child Education
Commemoration of International Day of the Girl Child
One of our key initiatives focuses on supporting girl child education. In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, ASESI distributed educational materials to girls in a primary school. This initiative addresses the significant challenge of girls’ access to education in Africa, where many girls are unable to attend school due to a lack of basic educational materials.
Challenges Faced by Girls in Accessing Education
Girls in Africa face numerous barriers to education, including poverty, cultural norms, and inadequate infrastructure. According to UNICEF, supporting girls’ education is crucial for achieving gender equality and empowering women. ASESI’s initiatives aim to remove these barriers and create an enabling environment for girls to succeed academically.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Education
Case of Alleged Sexual Harassment
ASESI is also actively involved in addressing gender-based violence in educational institutions. In one notable case, our team supported a female student who faced alleged sexual harassment at Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Uwana, Ebonyi State. Our intervention ensured that she could graduate without further hindrance from the alleged abusive lecturer.
This case highlights our commitment to creating safe and supportive educational environments for all students.
Importance of Addressing Sexual Harassment in Educational Institutions
Addressing sexual harassment in educational institutions is critical for ensuring that students can learn in a safe and supportive environment.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)], addressing violence against women and girls is essential to promoting their well-being and ensuring equal access to education.
By tackling harassment, educational institutions uphold dignity, protect rights, and foster an atmosphere conducive to academic achievement and personal growth. This commitment is vital in creating inclusive and empowering spaces for all learners.
In conclusion, ASESI’s journey is defined by a steadfast commitment to empowering African education through strategic partnerships, legislative advocacy, and initiatives that address critical challenges like gender-based violence. By advocating for educational reforms and supporting marginalized groups such as girls facing barriers to education, we aim to create inclusive and supportive learning environments where every student can thrive and fulfill their potential. Together, we are building a brighter future for Africa through education as empowerment.