The Able Generation for Empowerment (AGE) project focuses on improving collaboration and coordination among network partners to collectively advocate for the inclusion of Education for Health and Wellbeing (EHW) in the formal school curriculum in Ethiopia. The primary goal is to implement the EHW module within the Ethiopian school curriculum by engaging in advocacy efforts and influencing a change in government policy at the federal level. This initiative covers the entire Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, including all 10 regional states and 2 city administrations. The thematic areas of the project encompass addressing issues such as gender-based violence (GBV), reducing stigma and discrimination, enhancing sexual health education for young people and girls, and increasing access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for marginalized and vulnerable groups. EHW encompasses four essential pillars related to life skills, safe and inclusive learning environments, promoting healthy lifestyles, and addressing substance use. The project collaborates with Rutgers and Edukans, which provide valuable technical support as part of the outer circle of partnership.

The major strategies employed by AGE include strengthening the existing lobbying network, engaging in community conversations to reassure adults and parents about the benefits of the EHW module, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality EHW education. The project’s core mission is to bring about positive change in the education system by advocating for comprehensive health and wellbeing education, with a particular focus on the needs of young people and vulnerable populations throughout Ethiopia.