Final Progress Report: Northern Education Initiative Plus (NEI Plus) Contract No. AID-620-C-15-00002

The project aimed to improve reading outcomes and access to education for out-of-school children in the northern region of Nigeria. The initiative was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Creative Associates International, Inc. The project focused on three main areas: increasing opportunities for out-of-school children, improving reading outcomes, and strengthening educational systems. To achieve these goals, the project implemented various interventions, including the establishment of non-formal learning centers, teacher training programs, and the provision of teaching and learning materials. The project made significant progress in increasing enrollment and improving reading outcomes. According to the project's data, the number of established learning centers increased from 15 in 2015 to 1,200 in 2021, with a total of 120,000 learners enrolled. The project also reported a 27% increase in household income among program participants compared to the control group. The project's impact on reading outcomes was also notable. The Early Grade Reading Assessment (EGRA) results showed a significant improvement in reading skills among learners, with a 60% increase in the number of learners meeting the benchmarks in 2021 compared to 2015. The project also reported a 40% increase in the number of learners who could read with accuracy and fluency. The project's success was attributed to the strong partnership between USAID, the state governments of Bauchi and Sokoto, and local stakeholders. The project's implementation was characterized by a high level of transparency, accountability, and community engagement. The project's results were also influenced by the proactive leadership provided by the Federal Ministry of Education, the Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council, and the National Commission for Colleges of Education. The project's impact on the education sector in Nigeria was significant, with the project's results contributing to the country's efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) on quality education. The project's success also highlighted the importance of partnerships and community engagement in improving education outcomes in developing countries. The project's legacy continues to be felt in the northern region of Nigeria, with the project's results informing education policy and practice in the region. The project's success also serves as a model for future education initiatives in Nigeria and other developing countries.