A new research note titled "A Girl Can Dream: Analyzing Aspirations, Gender Norms, and Influencers Among Girls and Women in Mozambique" examines the ambitions and obstacles faced by adolescent girls and young women in Mozambique. The study, which collected data from over 1,150 girls and young women from vulnerable households across 60 communities, as well as 300 community stakeholders, provides insight into the challenges that shape their life choices.
According to the research, Mozambican girls confront a range of difficulties including low school completion rates, early marriage and pregnancy, limited access to quality jobs, and persistent gender norms. While programs exist to address these issues, their reach remains uneven.
The findings show that most girls hope to finish secondary school and some aspire to attend university. However, financial hardship, lack of support, and restrictive gender expectations often limit these ambitions. "Programs that aim to improve education outcomes must go beyond access—they must also nurture ambition, build confidence, and involve families and communities in the process," states the report.
There is also a disconnect between employment aspirations and market opportunities. Many young women wish to work in education or health sectors—fields that cannot accommodate all job seekers—while few consider higher-paying roles in male-dominated industries such as manufacturing or technology. The report suggests that targeted career guidance and entrepreneurship support could help bridge this gap.
Traditional gender roles continue to influence perceptions about what jobs are suitable for women. The study notes that many girls believe men should have more rights and resources than women. These beliefs are reinforced by family and community expectations; however, the research finds that communities may be more supportive of gender equality than girls assume. "Correcting these misperceptions could unlock new opportunities for empowerment," according to the authors.
Family members play a central role in shaping decisions for girls in Mozambique. Mothers are identified as particularly influential for unmarried girls—sometimes serving as champions but also acting as gatekeepers. The study recommends involving key family figures in empowerment programs.
Key statistics highlighted include:
- 90% of girls aspire to complete secondary school or higher education.
- Only a fraction achieve this goal; 95% of rural girls do not reach their desired education level compared with 85% in urban areas.
- 58% dream of careers in education, health, or public services.
- Financial constraints are cited by 80% as the main barrier to continuing education.
- Many underestimate their community’s support for gender equality.
This research note is part of a series produced by the East Africa Girls’ Empowerment and Resilience (EAGER) Evidence Hub—a World Bank regional initiative focused on increasing educational attainment, labor earnings, and decision-making power among girls and women in East and Southern Africa through evidence generation on effective interventions.