Figure 4: Factors Contributing to Improved Attendance
All students supported by education grants reported improved attendance and engagement at school. When asked their opinions on the key reasons for the increase in attendance, most students stated an increased motivation to attend. A quote from a Chilanga parent supported this strongly:“ The most unexpected change is how my child’ s attitude toward school has shifted. They now see the value of education in a completely new way and are more motivated.”
Students were allowed to select multiple answers to provide an overview of how different factors influenced their changes in attendance. Over half of students reported their attendance also increased due to an improved learning environment, including The Sonder Project’ s provision of both material and emotional support( 65 % F, 52 % M). Just under half of students stated the reduction in worries around financial issues improved their attendance( 40 % F, 43 % M), with one student explicitly linking the two:“ I was getting sent back from school because we didn’ t have fees, but Sonder gave us support and my family no longer struggles with making payments.”
A small proportion of students also reported an increased pressure from peers and teachers as a factor in their improved attendance( 0 % F, 5 % M), and / or the influence of potential opportunities for advancement( 10 % F, 10 % M).
4.2.5 Increased Academic Performance
The evaluation results show broad success, with 95 % of EIP students self-reporting improved academic performance linked to The Sonder Project. A small minority of the students did, however, provide constructive feedback, calling for reduced perceived stigma, stronger student ownership beyond program activities, and more tailored support to deepen participation success.
Figure 5: Factors Contributing to Improved Academic Performance
The students who did self-report increased performance were asked the main reason for their increase in performance. Over half of the students sampled rate The Sonder Project’ s provision of materials and equipment that support their academics as the most important factor improving their performance( 53 % F, 55 % M).
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