Education & Economic Outlook for Girls in Zimbabwe

The state of secondary school education for girls in Zimbabwe reflects both significant challenges and some progress. As of 2021, the gross enrollment rate for girls in secondary education was approximately 46%, indicating that nearly half of the eligible female population was enrolled in secondary school​ (World Bank Open Data). However, transition and completion rates reveal a more concerning picture. Many girls face barriers such as poverty, early marriages, and cultural norms that prioritize boys’ education. For example, nationally, only about 30% of girls complete upper secondary school, compared to 34% of boys ​(World Bank Open Data)​(2020 GEM Report). The dropout rates are influenced by factors like economic hardship and limited access to resources, particularly in rural areas. Addressing these barriers requires comprehensive interventions that focus on providing financial support, improving school infrastructure, and changing societal attitudes towards girls’ education.

The economic outlook for secondary school girls in Zimbabwe is challenging. After graduation, the likelihood of securing formal employment remains low, with the female labor force participation rate standing at just over 50%, compared to 80% for men globally​ (World Bank Gender Data Portal). Moreover, women are significantly underrepresented in leadership positions within both business and politics in Zimbabwe. Only 31% of senior and middle management positions are held by women, and women occupy less than 15% of seats in the national parliament ​(World Bank). This disparity underscores the need for improved access to education and economic opportunities to empower young women and enhance their chances of achieving leadership roles in the future.