EVALUATION OF FAMILY PLANNING ASSISTANCE THROUGH HOME ECONOMICS

Evaluation covers the period 1/1/78-4/21/80 and is based on site visits in Jamaica, Panama, Sierra Leone, Thailand, and the Philippines and discussions with AHEA (American Home Economics Association, the project contractor) regional directors. Each country made good progress in integrating FP information into home economics training in both formal school systems and rural outreach programs. AHEA conducted numerous international and national conferences and workshops. Educational materials produced by AHEA are being used in all country programs and by international organizations. "Working with Villagers", in particular, was highly regarded. In many countries, local newsletters and journals are being published. Cooperation with international family planning agencies, USAID missions, and host-country ministries was very good. Planned research studies, needs assessments, and evaluation projects are being carried out. Time-consuming procedures for approving project activities was a major problem for AHEA. Also, AHEA management was handicapped by personality conflicts and an inexperienced staff. Evaluators recommend that A.I.D. continue the project as a grant rather than a contract and reduce the number of reports required. Annual workplans for AHEA and country programs should be approved or revised promptly. AHEA personnel should be authorized to proceed with implementation without interim approval of all details. AHEA management could be improved by selection of a staff with LDC experience, language capability, and regard for other cultures; more rapid responses to country proposals; and the delegation of greater authority to regional offices and country coordinators. Other recommendations include the provision of funding to complete the training of extension workers; greater distribution of training materials; conducting surveys to determine if FP goals are being met; and intensifying country programs. Country and regional reports and an AHEA response to this evaluation are attached.