Technical resources project : evaluation of the in-country modular management training program for women

The evaluation covered the period 3/82-1/84 and was based on document review and interviews with trainees, trainers, and with administrative staff from the Ministry of Social Welfare and Women"s Affairs (MSWWA). A total of 390 women participated in the program, attending courses at the Center for Population Management and Research, the Academy for Planning and Development, and the Bangladesh Management and Development Centre, in October 1982, February 1983, and May 1983, respectively. Over time, USAID/B perceived that serious management problems existed in the implementation of the program. As a result, the program was suspended in January 1984, pending completion of the attached evaluation, which took place from September - November 1985. The evaluation team found evidence of serious, but not irremedial, management problems on the part of MSWWA and USAID/B in the implementation of the program. Neither had performed the required duties nor accepted necessary responsibilities. The team also found unanimous enthusiastic support among the alumnae, who volunteered insights and suggestions for improvement. Therefore, the team recommended that the program be continued with modifications: USAID/B should have a project officer assigned to monitor and assist the program; and the MSWWA and the participating training institutes must receive TA in appropriate administrative responsibilities before the program is revived. Two lessons were learned. (1) A project can founder and risk termination when neither the host government nor the Mission exercises due diligence in its implementation. (2) Even poorly conceived and implemented projects can have an important, salutary effect on intended beneficiaries. In this activity, despite the inadequacies in implementation, participants perceived the importance of management training. Their perception led USAID/B to persist in its efforts despite the problems encountered and despite its initial decision to terminate the program. (Author abstract, modified)