Evaluation Learnings Search

Learning Description

The staff approaches situations creatively and efficiently, without getting bogged down by problems. The April workshop, which included CMEP development and other teambuilding activities, contributed to creating a solid base out of which the project operates. The ARCH project team is effective, following cost-efficient strategies and sensible, context-appropriate approaches.

Learning Description

It is clear that the Awareness Raising Campaigns have been effective. The source of this success is because of the foundation laid in the communities with ARCH staff, Community Advocates, local mobilizers, educators, and parents. The messages are simple, but the issues surrounding child labor are complex. By probing and analyzing the issues in an atmosphere of respect and transparency, the parents and children, as well as other community members who routinely employed children before (even teachers) are adherents. Stakeholders, beneficiaries, and other informants touched by the awareness raising understand that the fight against child labor is for the security and betterment of families and the country. Child labor continues, but the Community Advocates and the Child Labor Committee Members are able to explain the reason why it should be eliminated.

Learning Description

Bringing trade unionists, the rubber companies, and the government into project activities along with educators and community leaders has brought resourceful and enthusiastic players together from a variety of sectors that do not usually have the chance to work in a positive way. Both government and the rubber sector seem quick to recognize the benefits of partnering with ARCH, even without large, elaborate inputs. ARCH is in communities and making a positive difference in the lives of people living in marginal economies.

Learning Description

The PTA grants help schools and have the added benefit of bringing parents and educators together for substantive improvements to the community schools.

Learning Description

Craftsmen should implement construction.

Learning Description

COBET Centers enroll many children who are or have been directly engaged in child labor and who had no hope of reintegrating school. The tremendous appeal of these programs among target villages confirms the need for rebuilding and expanding these programs throughout Tanzania. Costs are minimal since classes are held at primary schools after hours and most COBET teachers volunteer their time to these groups of often-forgotten children. Providing school uniforms, supplies and shoes in Kigoma Region has increased the COBET students’ sense of belonging.

Learning Description

School Committee and School Board Strengthening- Wekeza training for SC/SB members has resulted in increased cooperation between parents and teachers and within villages, with significant accomplishments in terms of community solidarity, scholastic discipline and positive parenting. One exceptional result is the creation of parent-sponsored school feeding programs in primary schools which ensures that the poorest children stay at school for the entire day.

Learning Description

CSO field support to Wekeza in education, livelihoods, youth and awareness raising activities- local CSO involvement not only provides Wekeza with eyes and ears on the ground, it also builds local capacity to continue child labor advocacy and support services after project end.

Learning Description

DCLC creation to promote district ownership of the child labor initiative-the broad cast of participants in the DCLCs, ranging from the District Commission to the officers for Social Welfare, Community Development, Trade, Education, and Agriculture, ensures better understanding of child labor issues on the local level and active involvement in activities targeting beneficiaries which lends credibility to Wekeza’s programs and enhances its chances for sustainability.

Learning Description

LGA Bylaws outlawing child labor- the adoption of bylaws on the village, ward and district level that outlaw child labor and identify sanctions for violations is a significant disincentive for families who might still be tempted to send their children into local child labor or to urban areas for underage domestic service. Bylaws are now in place in 13 of 27 Wekeza village in Tanga, with another four villages poised to enact similar measures. This is a good practice for replication in Kigoma.