URBAN EMPLOYMENT AND MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT -- ASOCIACION SAN JOSE OBRERO

Evaluation covers the period 8/79-2/81 and is based on a discussion between Asociacion San Jose Obrero (ASJO) and A.I.D. personnel. The project is satisfying its vocational training objectives. ASJO has done an excellent job managing inputs. Although delayed by 1 year, two Instituto de Capacitacion Tecnia buildings were 90% completed as of 2/81. This delay did not affect the project purpose, because ASJO combined training with construction activities. The National Professional Training Institute has conducted courses for 170 students in masonry, roof carpentry, human relations, intermediate management, technical drawing, mechanics, and radio/TV repair. Housing objectives have not been fulfilled. Housing for low- and middle-income families have not yet been built, due a lack of secondary financial sources and ASJO"s inability to manage the detailed planning required for housing construction. Although solutions to these problems are in sight, no overall implementation plan yet exists. Nevertheless, Casa Propia, an S&L, has approved ASJO"s request to consider ASJO members for mortgage financing. This will cover up to 15% of ASJO"s needs. It is expected that the remainder will be covered by FEHCOVIL. In the meantime, ASJO is constructing four model homes for demonstration and training. Plans are being made to test the use of rammed earth construction methods to reduce costs. It is recommended that: the project paper, logframe, and implementation plan be revised; an agreement for mortgage financing be negotiated between ASJO and a financing institution; and administrative arrangements for housing construction activity be completed.