The Five-Phase Transitioning Process for a Disadvantaged Girl

Phase II: Gap Period

In Kenya, due to a culmination of complicated circumstances, the gap period between high school graduation and beginning university, college or trade school ranges from 4 - 21 months. For those girls awarded a university, college or trade school sponsorship, the survival challenges faced during the gap period are often too great to overcome. As a result, instead of completing university, college or trade school, they disappear from the radar and end up being married off to men not of their choice, working as domestic help, or in situations even worse.

Because the gap period is such a critical fall-out period for these girls, protective measures (safe Youth Hostels, assigned Social Workers, etc.) are carefully built into Phase II. During this phase the mentoring process continues to evolve, and continues to be propelled and enabled by advancements in communication technology. Girls with local Kenyan mentors are able to communicate regularly through inexpensive text-messaging available through local mobile phone networks. Girls with non-Kenyan mentors are able to communicate regularly through affordable Internet Cafes located throughout the country.

Next: Phase III