22%
Of women completed primary school
Education and gender inequality
Girls are more likely to drop out of school than boys are. Currently, only 22% of women in Addis Abeba completed primary school and only 4% reached university levels.
In an effort to keep children in school for longer, it is important to address the reasons why they drop out. If families cannot afford the cost of schooling or children need to contribute to the household income, then they require support so that children can go to school as long as possible
24%
Of Addis Abeba population is unemployed
High youth unemployment
Many young people move to Addis Abeba in search of better opportunities. The majority come from rural areas where there are few chances of getting a job, or of making a living. Young people with education backgrounds have better chances in urban areas. This is especially true for Addis Abeba since it is the cultural, political and economic centre of the country.
However, there is also an increase in the competition for jobs. Young people often end up working in low paid and unstable jobs in the informal economy. At the same time, 24% of job seeking adults in Addis Abeba are unemployed.
Your support makes a difference for children in Addis Abeba
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported in the community
240
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergarten and school
120
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
![]()
Two young boys playing together. Children in our care grow up together and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Ethiopia).
How your support helps in Addis Abeba
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school..
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.