Final performance evaluation of USAID/Ethiopia’s building the potential of youth activity

It aimed to increase the income and economic self-sufficiency of unemployed and underemployed youth in Ethiopia. This evaluation, conducted by the Ethiopia Performance Management and Evaluation Services (EPMES) Activity, generated evidence that would help explain the performance of the BPY activity and inform future similar programs on youth economic opportunity and employment by employing a mixed-method design combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. The focus of the evaluation questions was on employment, income status, female/male targeting, TVET capacity, public-private partnerships, YES-Hubs, evidence-based adaptation, self-sufficiency and success and challenges. Overall, the evaluation found that the activity met its objectives. It effectively targeted and recruited participants, and effectively engaged and leveraged partners in the implementation process. Areas for improvement and consideration for future programming are more active gender mainstreaming in implementation of activities, diversified approaches for rural and underserved populations, and more comprehensive support for the institutional determinants of workforce development.