A child studying./PHOTO; Courtesy
Opportunity International has recognised schools across Africa among the winners of its 2025 EduQuality Global Awards, announced in December 2025, spotlighting institutions that are advancing quality education in underserved communities through strong leadership and locally grounded solutions.
The awards honour eight affordable non-state schools across Africa, Asia, and Latin America that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to educational quality, particularly in rural and low-income settings where access to resources remains limited.
African schools accounted for the majority of country-level award recipients this year, underscoring the continent’s growing leadership in community-driven education models.
The EduQuality Global Awards draw from more than 3,000 schools participating in Opportunity International’s EduQuality programme, which supports school proprietors and educators with training, financial tools, and operational guidance aimed at improving learning outcomes for children living in extreme poverty.
“A quality education is the engine of opportunity—and one of the surest ways to end generational poverty,” said Atul Tandon, Opportunity International’s Chief Executive Officer.
“This year’s EduQuality Award winners demonstrate that quality education can be provided to every child, regardless of background or income level. Their leadership is shaping stronger schools today and stronger communities for generations.”
African Schools Recognised for Local Leadership
In Kenya, the Shiners School Maili Saba was recognised for undertaking major renovations that significantly improved the safety and learning environment for students.
The upgrades strengthened the school’s infrastructure and contributed to improved student outcomes, reflecting the impact of targeted investment in basic facilities.
Ghana’s Wellspring School received recognition for improving teacher capacity through focused training programmes, leading to stronger classroom instruction and better student learning outcomes.
In Nigeria, Royal Pride Montessori School was honoured for advancing inclusive, child-centred education, an approach that earned it recognition as a Montessori school of excellence.
In Tanzania, Souvenir Pre and Primary School was recognised for increasing enrolment by more than 50 per cent, while also improving its financial sustainability a critical factor for affordable schools operating in low-income communities.
Rwanda’s Good Foundation Centre for Education was acknowledged for infrastructure improvements that supported enrolment growth and created a more conducive learning environment.
Each of the African country-level winners will receive a $1,000 cash prize, along with an award certificate and commemorative wall plaque.
Global Context, Shared Challenges
While African schools featured prominently, Opportunity International also recognised institutions in India and the Dominican Republic, reflecting the global scope of the EduQuality programme.
India’s Vidyanketan Matriculation Higher Secondary School was named the 2025 EduQuality Global Winner.
Following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school focused on restoring student behaviour and emotional well-being.
Through new policies, teacher training, and strong community engagement, Vidyanketan achieved a 30 per cent reduction in disciplinary cases and a 25 per cent increase in attendance.
Other country winners included Bharathi Kalabhavan School in India, recognised for increasing admissions and reducing behavioural challenges, and Escuela Hogar Paula in the Dominican Republic, which improved enrolment while reducing unpaid tuition.
Supporting Educators at the Frontline
According to Opportunity International, the awards are designed not only to celebrate outcomes but also to highlight the role of school leaders and teachers working under challenging conditions.
“Opportunity International is committed to teachers and school proprietors because they are committed to their students and communities,” said Andrew McCusker, Head of Education Finance.
“The winners of this year’s EduQuality Awards are proof positive that our world’s educators have what it takes to propel their students forward—many just need the support, training, and financial resources necessary to achieve their own goals.”
Founded more than 54 years ago, Opportunity International works globally to equip families with financial resources, training, and support to build sustainable livelihoods and educate their children. In 2024, the organisation and its partners helped fund more than 19,000 schools, reaching 3.4 million children worldwide.
The strong representation of African schools in the 2025 EduQuality Global Awards highlights the growing impact of locally led education solutions and the critical role affordable non-state schools continue to play in expanding access to quality learning across the continent.
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