Tostan: Difference between revisions

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'''Tostan''' is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in [[Senegal]] that works towards the empowerment of African communities. The organization's name, ''Tostan'', means "breakthrough" in the [[Wolof language|Wolof]] language. Tostan's approach to development and social transformation is rooted in respect for human rights and the use of traditional African methods of learning and communication.
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== History ==
[[File:Tostan English Wordmark clear RBG.png|thumb|right|Tostan logo]]
Tostan was founded in 1991 by [[Molly Melching]], an American woman who had lived in Senegal since 1974. Melching's work in Senegal began with a children's education project, but she soon realized that the most effective way to bring about lasting change was to educate adults, particularly women, about their rights and responsibilities.


== Programs ==
'''Tostan''' is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in [[Dakar]], [[Senegal]], focused on community-led development in [[Africa]]. Founded in 1991 by [[Molly Melching]], Tostan's mission is to empower African communities to bring about sustainable development and positive social transformation based on respect for human rights.
Tostan's main program is the Community Empowerment Program (CEP), which uses a participatory approach to education. The CEP covers a wide range of topics, including human rights, problem-solving, hygiene, health, literacy, and numeracy. The program is implemented in the local languages of the communities it serves.


Tostan has also been involved in efforts to end [[Female genital mutilation|female genital cutting]] (FGC) and [[Child marriage|child marriage]]. The organization's work in these areas has been recognized internationally, and it has received support from various donors, including the [[United Nations]] and the [[Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation]].
==History==
Tostan, meaning "breakthrough" in the [[Wolof language]], was established by [[Molly Melching]] after her experiences in Senegal, where she observed the need for education programs that were culturally relevant and community-driven. The organization initially focused on literacy and education, but it soon expanded its scope to include health, governance, and economic empowerment.


== Impact ==
==Programs==
Tostan's programs have had a significant impact in the communities they serve. As of 2018, more than 8,000 communities in eight African countries have publicly declared an end to FGC and child marriage as a result of Tostan's work.
Tostan's programs are centered around its Community Empowerment Program (CEP), which is a three-year, non-formal education program. The CEP covers modules on democracy, human rights, problem-solving, hygiene, health, and literacy. The program is designed to be participatory and is delivered in local languages.


== See also ==
===Community Empowerment Program===
* [[Non-governmental organization]]
The CEP is divided into three phases:
 
* '''Kobi''': This phase focuses on human rights, democracy, and problem-solving. Participants learn about their rights and responsibilities and how to engage in democratic processes.
* '''Aawde''': This phase covers health and hygiene, including topics such as maternal and child health, nutrition, and disease prevention.
* '''Sengue''': The final phase focuses on literacy and numeracy, enabling participants to apply their new skills in practical ways.
 
==Impact==
Tostan has been recognized for its role in reducing [[female genital mutilation]] (FGM) and child marriage in the communities where it operates. Through its holistic approach, Tostan has facilitated public declarations against these practices, leading to significant social change.
 
==Recognition==
Tostan has received numerous awards for its innovative approach to development, including the [[Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize]] in 2007. The organization is often cited as a model for community-led development.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Molly Melching]]
* [[Female genital mutilation]]
* [[Community development]]
* [[Community development]]
* [[Human rights in Senegal]]


== References ==
==References==
<references />
{{Reflist}}


== External links ==
==External links==
* [http://www.tostan.org Official website]
* [https://www.tostan.org/ Official website]


[[Category:Non-governmental organizations]]
[[File:Molly Melching, Tostan, 2007.jpg|thumb|right|Molly Melching, founder of Tostan, in 2007]]
 
[[Category:Non-governmental organizations based in Senegal]]
[[Category:Organizations established in 1991]]
[[Category:Organizations established in 1991]]
[[Category:Organizations based in Senegal]]
[[Category:Human rights organizations]]
[[Category:Human rights organizations]]
[[Category:Community development organizations]]
{{stub}}

Revision as of 20:59, 9 February 2025


Tostan logo

Tostan is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in Dakar, Senegal, focused on community-led development in Africa. Founded in 1991 by Molly Melching, Tostan's mission is to empower African communities to bring about sustainable development and positive social transformation based on respect for human rights.

History

Tostan, meaning "breakthrough" in the Wolof language, was established by Molly Melching after her experiences in Senegal, where she observed the need for education programs that were culturally relevant and community-driven. The organization initially focused on literacy and education, but it soon expanded its scope to include health, governance, and economic empowerment.

Programs

Tostan's programs are centered around its Community Empowerment Program (CEP), which is a three-year, non-formal education program. The CEP covers modules on democracy, human rights, problem-solving, hygiene, health, and literacy. The program is designed to be participatory and is delivered in local languages.

Community Empowerment Program

The CEP is divided into three phases:

  • Kobi: This phase focuses on human rights, democracy, and problem-solving. Participants learn about their rights and responsibilities and how to engage in democratic processes.
  • Aawde: This phase covers health and hygiene, including topics such as maternal and child health, nutrition, and disease prevention.
  • Sengue: The final phase focuses on literacy and numeracy, enabling participants to apply their new skills in practical ways.

Impact

Tostan has been recognized for its role in reducing female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage in the communities where it operates. Through its holistic approach, Tostan has facilitated public declarations against these practices, leading to significant social change.

Recognition

Tostan has received numerous awards for its innovative approach to development, including the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize in 2007. The organization is often cited as a model for community-led development.

Related pages

References

<references group="" responsive="1"></references>


External links

Molly Melching, founder of Tostan, in 2007