Fátima, a 16-year-old from Acomayo, Cusco, has become a role model for the adolescent girls in her community who seek to transform their future through education. Despite the norms that often limit girls’ access to learning, she rises every day with the goal of empowering other young women to break free from traditional roles. In Acomayo, more than 2,400 girls between the ages of 6 and 16 face significant challenges. Fátima points out that many drop out of school due to early pregnancies, forced unions, or the pressure to dedicate themselves to household duties.
Although the latest report from INEI shows an apparent improvement in educational access, over 413,000 adolescents aged 12 to 16 are not enrolled in secondary education, and nearly 60,000 do not attend primary school. Fátima has been involved in guidance programs driven by the organization Plan International, where talks with professionals in psychology and health are offered. “Sometimes, the fear and ignorance of parents limit access to education and the necessary information,” she explains.
However, she remains steadfast in her fight to change this reality, convinced that every girl who manages to study has the potential to make decisions about her life. “The stories that once ended in silence can now be told as tales of struggle and opportunity,” concludes Fátima, who continues to seek support in her community to ensure girls’ right to education.
