Moms are back in the classroom

In May our thoughts turn to Mom.   Mother's Day is celebrated on different dates around the world, but the sentiment remains the same: to express gratitude and show love to mothers and mother figures in our lives. It is a day to recognize the important role that mothers play in shaping our lives, and to thank them for their unconditional love and support.  Whether it is with a phone call, card, flowers, or a special meal, moms around the world appreciate the extra love.

But at IEP, we have mothers in mind every day of the year as we develop and refine programs that impact communities.  Mothers are at the heart of everything we do since you simply cannot impact a community without the support of its mothers. 

One of the secrets of IEP’s success is the constant communication between our staff and the people we serve.  Our programs are developed in partnership with the service recipients.  So, when the mothers of IEP’s El Molino School expressed that they wanted access to education and training, we got to work.

Governments and NGOs around the world understand that education is a powerful tool for empowering mothers and improving the lives of their children and families.

·       Women's education has a significant impact on child survival rates. According to UNESCO, if all women had a primary education, child mortality would be reduced by two-thirds.

·       Educated mothers are more likely to send their children to school. In Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, the children of mothers with a secondary education are twice as likely to go to school as those whose mothers have no education.

·       Vocational training helps mothers to improve their own economic opportunities. 

·       Women who receive vocational training can gain greater independence and self-confidence, which can have a positive impact on their overall well-being and mental health.  They are more likely to participate in the workforce and to have a greater say in decision-making within their families and communities.

What better way can we support families than by empowering mothers with these educational opportunities?  By providing women with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce and beyond, IEP is impacting the lives of entire communities. 

Learn more about IEP and its programs that inspire HOPE at i-ep.org.