Based on the 2017 projections by the Central Statistical Agency of Ethiopia (CSA), the Afar Regional State has a population of 1,812,002, consisting of 991,000 men and 821,002 women; urban inhabitants number 346,000 of the population, a further 1,466,000 were pastoralists.


EDA animal health and functional adult education (FAL) projects take a holistic approach to ensure that both men and women have equal opportunities to access quality education. The FAL or education program is integrated with livelihood according to the community-led development approach.


Poor reading and writing skills of the young girls in the lower grades have a negative impact on a girl’s academic success through primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. EDA has partnered with private stakeholders, the school community, the government, and Teachers Training College to provide young students with a safe school environment and a solid academic foundation.