Three Years Away From School

How Famata Found Her Way Back and Landed at the Top of Her Class

Outside their home in Monrovia, Famata’s mother runs a small table market. Each day, she sits behind mounds of bitter ball, okra, peppers and onions, inviting people passing by to purchase ingredients commonly used in traditional Liberian soup.

The money she earns allows her to feed her family and pay the rent. But once those essentials are covered, there is nothing left for school fees. For three years, that kept Famata out of the classroom.

Famata’s experience is shared by many children in Liberia. Only 54 per cent complete primary education, and many students are older than expected for their grade because they entered school late or had their education interrupted (UNICEF). This is not a reflection of their ability. Often, it is simply a question of whether their families can afford to keep them in school.

The challenge is especially acute for girls. Among adolescent girls aged 15 to 19, only 40 per cent remain in school, one of the lowest rates in the region (Liberian Investigator). For many young people, the desire to learn is there. What is missing is a way back.

For Famata, that way back began with Universal Outreach.

The Bridge Back

One year after Famata left school, her mother enrolled her in Universal Outreach’s Strive Reading Program. Over the next two years, Famata strengthened her foundational reading and math skills at the centre. Even as she waited for the opportunity to return to school, she kept moving forward.

Famata stood out, not because of one exceptional day, but because of the consistency she brought to every lesson. Her teachers noticed her focus, her behaviour and the steady effort she put into her work.

That commitment earned Famata a Bright Star Scholarship. With her school fees covered, she was able to return to formal education after three years away.

"I was happy to go to the reading program because the environment was lively and I got to read plenty. It kept me up while I waited to go back to school." - Famata

What She Did With It

Famata returned to school in Grade 2. She was older than many of the other children in her class, but she did not let that discourage her.

Her progress came quickly. Famata was promoted at the end of her first semester and, by the end of the 2024/2025 school year, had advanced to Grade 4. This school year, she has ranked first in her class since the term began. Science is her strongest subject, fitting for a girl who dreams of becoming a doctor one day.

Famata’s progress is a testament to her determination. It also shows what becomes possible when a student is met where she is, given time to rebuild her foundation and supported long enough to move forward with confidence.

Bright Star scholars graduate from high school at a rate of 96 per cent. At thirteen, Famata already has her sights set beyond graduation and on the future she wants to build.

Her mother continues to sell goods from a table outside their home and the family’s income has not suddenly become plentiful. What has changed is that Famata’s education no longer depends on what remains after food and rent are paid.

Her mother did everything she could to keep Famata learning. A scholarship helped bridge the gap and Famata has made the very most of the opportunity.

If you would like to help another student find their way back to school, you can learn more here.