FINAL BLOCK GRANT EVALUATION

This final evaluation covers the period 12/21/72-12/31/76. Evaluation methodology is not specified. GOC officials were familiarized with the "cities within cities" conceptual approach. The GOC has used BG studies as policy guidelines to implement programs in such areas as land acquisition and financial strategies. Regarding tax administration, BG surveys were used to formulate the GOC President's "To Close the Gap" development plan. A national code book for natural resources and environmental protection was compiled, including recommendations on the Temporary Duty Studies services provided under the BG. Also, an evaluation of alternatives for carbon transportation from Guajira to domestic and international markets was used in designing a regional development plan. A conceptual framework for analyzing the education sector was completed and is being used by the GOC. A Princeton University study on Colombian population patterns served as the basis for Colombia's presentation at the Human Settlement Conference in Ottawa in 1976. Michigan State University completed a review/analysis of the existing agricultural marketing system and initiated its recommended marketing plan. Technical assistance was given to the Institute of Colombian Studies and the DNP on the use of statistical indicators as a tool to measure industrial growth and to formulate industrial policies. The Denver Research Institute assisted the Colombian Institute of Technological Investigations in its technology transfer capability and held seminars covering topics such as budgeting and cost controls. In total, 10 short-term courses were offered, providing training in all of the above project areas and in social communications. USAID believes that while BG technical assistance and training have aided the GOC, the project was too ambitious in light of the diversity of the project components. The block-type project model should be abandoned.