Finland's Education Support in Mozambique Yields Positive Results

Over the years, Finland has prioritized qualified teachers and education for girls, directing much of its support through the Education Sector Support Fund (FASE) alongside other donors.

A recent evaluation has highlighted the positive outcomes of cooperation between Finland and Mozambique, particularly in the education sector. Finland's support has significantly impacted teacher education, a crucial aspect of children's learning, according to the evaluation.

Over the years, Finland has prioritized qualified teachers and education for girls, directing much of its support through the Education Sector Support Fund (FASE) alongside other donors. The evaluation, covering the period from 2014 to 2022, underscores the significant progress achieved. The number of teachers in primary and secondary schools has increased, with the share of female teachers rising to one-quarter of all teachers. Mozambique has also made strides in improving access to basic education, with over 90 percent of children aged 6 to 12 attending school before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Finland's support has focused on critical aspects of learning outcomes, such as teacher training and mother-tongue education, while also aiding Mozambique in substantial education sector reforms. These reforms include diversifying teacher education and extending free compulsory education from seven to nine years.

The evaluation report commends Finland for its consistent and substantial support, highlighting its role as a key partner in Mozambique's education sector. Finland's long-term engagement and professional dialogue with Mozambique's Ministry of Education have been instrumental in driving education strategy and policy reforms.

Programs implemented alongside FASE have further enhanced Finland's effectiveness in the education sector. Additionally, Finland's visibility and relevance in Mozambique's education sector have been augmented through joint projects with the World Bank and civil society organizations.

Despite significant progress, challenges remain, particularly in the quality of education. With the population expected to double over the next 25 years, the need for education will continue to rise. The evaluation report emphasizes the importance of addressing skill and support needs at the Ministry of Education and improving learning outcomes.

Recommendations from the evaluation report include a continued focus on girls' schooling, enhancing teachers' performance, and strengthening school governance in basic education. Finland is also encouraged to share lessons learned from cooperation with other donors.

However, as part of fiscal adjustment measures, Finland will reduce its development cooperation funding in the coming years, impacting cooperation with Mozambique. Bilateral support, including to FASE, will end, and cooperation will shift towards political, economic, and commercial relations. Despite these changes, cooperation with civil society organizations and higher education institutions will remain possible, aligning with the recommendations of the evaluation report.