12th Quarterly Report: Developing Rehabilitation Assistance to Schools and Teacher Improvement (D-RASATI 2)

The program's overarching goal is to support the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE) in delivering high-quality public education, comparable to the private school system. D-RASATI 2 was launched in October 2013 with an original completion date of September 2015 and a $24.5 million budget. The program's specific objectives include enhancing the learning environments in public schools, providing dynamic learning opportunities to school administrators and teachers, and increasing parent and community involvement. To achieve these objectives, D-RASATI 2 involves staff from MEHE and the Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD) in each of its components. This approach is designed to embed institutional capacity, operational, and technical know-how in the structure of Lebanon's public school system. D-RASATI 2 has undergone contract modifications to address the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis on Lebanese schools. In September 2014, USAID expanded the project's scope of work to target schools most affected by the crisis, increased the budget by $4.5 million, and extended the completion date to March 30, 2016. Subsequent no-cost extensions were approved in March and May 2016, allowing the project to continue until December 31, 2016. The program is divided into three components: Provision of Equipment and Computer Labs to Public Schools, Provision of In-Service Public School Teacher Training, and School Leadership Development with Parents and Community Involvement. Component 1 focuses on developing an ICT action plan, procuring ICT equipment, and establishing computer labs in public schools. Component 2 involves training public school teachers in English language and ICT skills, as well as expanding extracurricular activities. Component 3 aims to develop school leadership and community engagement through the Leadership Development Program and School Improvement Program. Monitoring and evaluation are critical components of D-RASATI 2, with a focus on tracking progress, identifying challenges, and making adjustments to the project plan as needed. The program also places emphasis on communication, ensuring that stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the project. The D-RASATI 2 program has made significant progress in its first two years, with notable achievements in the provision of equipment and computer labs, teacher training, and school leadership development. However, challenges remain, including the need to address the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis on Lebanese schools and to ensure the sustainability of project outcomes. Recommendations for immediate action in Quarter 13 include continuing to support the implementation of the Leadership Development Program and School Improvement Program, expanding extracurricular activities, and addressing the challenges faced by schools in the host communities. The program's success will depend on the continued collaboration and commitment of MEHE, CERD, and other stakeholders.