Mentorship Sparks Change Among Students in Namuno
Maria is more than a mentor. She is a symbol of hope and transformation, proving that with the right support and opportunities, young people can drive meaningful change in their communities.
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Namuno, Cabo Delgado - It’s 3:00 PM at Mahossine Primary School in Namuno district, Cabo Delgado. The afternoon sun still beats down as students finish their lessons. Among them is 20-year-old Maria Armando Azevedo, a 9th-grade student whose impact extends far beyond the classroom.
Maria is one of the most dedicated mentors in the School Mentorship Programme, implemented by the District Service of Education, Youth and Technology with support from UNICEF and funding from the European Union.
Since the beginning of 2025, Maria has stood out for her commitment and dedication to the programme. With a shy yet determined smile, she shares:
“I make home visits when a child misses a mentorship session. I work twice a week. Being a mentor means helping children dream of a better future. I want to be a positive example in the community, especially for other girls. That’s why we ask UNICEF to continue this programme.”
The school mentorship initiative is helping to reduce dropout rates and encouraging more girls to take an active role in their education.
The programme has also served as a platform for raising awareness on crucial topics such as gender equality, citizenship, sexual and reproductive health, and children's rights, issues that Maria addresses with empathy and courage.
Maria is more than a mentor. She is a symbol of hope and transformation, proving that with the right support and opportunities, young people can drive meaningful change in their communities.
