Advancing Youth Project Year 1 Quarterly Report 4 and Annual Report

The project's Year 1 Annual Report and Quarter 4 Report, submitted by Education Development Center, Inc., highlights key achievements and progress made during the period from July to September 2012. Institutional capacity building was a primary focus of the project. The Ministry of Education (MoE) was able to set national Alternative Basic Education (ABE) policies, prepare annual implementation plans and budgets, and train, support, and monitor ABE teachers. The MoE also established a coordination mechanism with the Advancing Youth project to ensure effective implementation of ABE programs. Additionally, the project supported the development of a comprehensive ABE curriculum, which included Level 2 materials on literacy for work, numeracy, and life skills, as well as the writing of Level 3 curriculum. The project also made significant progress in increasing access to basic education and skills training for out-of-school and over-age youth. Strategies for recruiting and retaining youth, especially young women, were planned and implemented, including community-based recruitment and the establishment of school-based youth clubs. ABE facilitators received training to effectively teach all levels of the ABE curriculum, and procedures were established to track learner progress. Furthermore, the project supported the development and testing of IRI programs to support Level 1 lessons in all content areas. In terms of sustainable livelihood pathways, the project aimed to increase access to relevant basic education and skills training for out-of-school and over-age youth. The project supported the development of a comprehensive ABE curriculum, which included Level 2 materials on literacy for work, numeracy, and life skills. Additionally, the project established partnerships with local institutions to deliver quality ABE instruction and promote entrance and persistence in ABE programs. The project also made significant progress in partnerships and outreach. The project collaborated with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Liberia International NGO Education Sector Coordination Meeting, and the Peace Corps. The project also conducted outreach activities, including Literacy Day and Learning Resource Center Outreach, to promote awareness about the project's goals and objectives. Overall, the Advancing Youth Project made significant progress in increasing institutional capacity, access to basic education and skills training, and sustainable livelihood pathways for out-of-school and over-age youth in Liberia. The project's achievements and progress highlight the importance of collaborative efforts between government institutions, local organizations, and international partners to address the needs of vulnerable youth populations.