RESEARCH OUTPUTS: YEAR 3 & 4
Cross country Synthesis of Out of School Mapping Studies across Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria
The report presents a synthesis of the findings of the out of school mapping study across Ghana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone. It highlights the magnitude of the OOS challenge, what the solutions have been over the period and what the prevailing issues are.
Ghana Working Paper on the Impact of Accelerated Education Models on Girls’ and Girl’s Education
This paper provides evidence on the impact and effectiveness of AEPs/GFMs in addressing the challenges of out-of-school children (OOSC) and youth across West Africa, using a gendered transformative approach. It explores the impact of these models on girls, particularly, on girls’ empowerment, transition and retention in school and general life outcomes based on evidence from an IDRC funded ‘out-of-school’ mapping and effectiveness study.
The Impact and Effectiveness of Accelerated Education programmes in Nigeria: the impact on Girls and Girls’ Education
The purpose of the working paper is to collate selected evidence from the OOSC mapping study and qualitative effectiveness study to highlight the impact of accelerated education programs (AEP) on girls’ education in Nigeria. It attempts to take a direct slice of the instrument data to answer the research questions on Girls Education which are imbedded in the study.
Effectiveness of Accelerated Education Programmes (AEPs) Study in Sierra Leone
The Effectiveness Study Report on Sierra Leone, part of a broader IDRC-funded initiative, evaluates the impact of Accelerated Education Programs (AEPs) and Girls-Focused Models (GFMs) on increasing access to education for out-of-school children (OOSC) in rural, marginalized areas. The study found that AEPs effectively support transitions to formal schooling and employment, particularly for girls, by covering essential costs, fostering inclusive learning environments, and promoting self-confidence. While AEP graduates performed comparably to non-AEP students in basic literacy, challenges such as poverty, long travel distances, and family responsibilities hinder full participation. Graduates also benefit from vocational skills and entrepreneurial training, though sustaining ventures remains difficult. Government efforts to scale AEPs are underway, with a focus on aligning them with national education strategies and strengthening community involvement to ensure sustainability and broader impact.
Policy Brief on Effectiveness Study - Ghana
This policy brief aims to synthesize key findings and provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance quality education for vulnerable children and youth in West Africa, particularly within the context of accelerated education programs (AEP) and girls’ empowerment models (GEM). The study focuses on assessing the effectiveness, adaptability and scalability of these programs and models in addressing barriers to education and empowering vulnerable children and youth in rural, extreme poverty and fragile environments.
Research Brief on Effectiveness Study - Sierra Leone
Key findings from the Effectiveness study show that AEPs help reduce dropouts by covering costs like uniforms and fostering inclusive, supportive environments, especially for girls. Beneficiaries reported comparable literacy outcomes with non-AEP peers, though challenges such as poverty, long travel distances, and domestic duties persist. Some graduates successfully transition to employment or entrepreneurship, though sustaining income remains difficult. The report recommends scaling AEPs, strengthening community support, and aligning efforts with government strategies to increase impact and sustainability.
Research Brief on Effectiveness Study - Nigeria
The paper synthesizes key findings and provides evidence-based recommendations to enhance quality education for vulnerable children and youth in West Africa, particularly within the context of AEPs and Girls empowerment models.
Effectiveness of Accelerated Education Programmes in Nigeria
Context Analysis for Scale Up of AEPs in Sierra Leone
The Context Analysis of Accelerated Education Programs (AEPs) in Sierra Leone examines efforts to address the high number of out-of-school children (OOSC) by scaling AEPs and girls’ empowerment initiatives. The report emphasizes the importance of community involvement, policy alignment, and collaborative efforts between state and non-state actors to mainstream AEPs into the formal education system and achieve universal primary and secondary education goals.
Lessons Learned- Scaling of AEPs_Sierra Leone
The brief highlights the importance of a favorable policy environment, committed leadership, flexible learner-centered approaches, and long-term funding mechanisms for the success and scalability of AEPs. The document emphasizes the need for inclusive education, community involvement, and the transition of AEP beneficiaries to formal schooling. In addition, the brief provides valuable insights into the key factors influencing the effectiveness and sustainability of AEPs in Sierra Leone.
Lessons Learned from the Sustainability and Scalability of Complementary Basic Education Program in Ghana
The brief focuses on the Sustainability and Scalability of the Complementary Basic Education (CBE) Program in Ghana. It emphasizes the importance of investing in basic education to achieve broader developmental objectives in the country. It further highlights the lessons learned from the implementation of the CBE program, including the significance of monitoring, evaluation, and community participation.
The Nigerian Political Economic Analysis
The paper focuses on Nigeria’s political and economic challenges, specifically addressing the issue of out-of-school children (OOSC). Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of OOSC globally, with poverty, early marriages, and regional insecurity (especially in the northeast) contributing to the crisis. The report emphasizes the importance of Accelerated Education Programs (AEPs) as a solution, highlighting government efforts and international support for these programs.
Cost Effectiveness Study Report Ghana
This study provides evidence on the cost-effectiveness of AEPs and Girls Focused Models (GFMs) programs implemented in 3 regions and over 8 districts in the Northern part of Ghana. The findings show that AEPs are cost-efficient, transitioning over 90% of AEP beneficiaries at an average cost of GHS816 (US$71) compared to the formal sector cost of GHS 962(US$83).
Policy Brief on the Cost Effectiveness Study in Ghana
This policy brief provides evidence on the cost effectiveness of AEPs. The paper shows that ensuring the scalability of AEPs is vital for effectively addressing the OOSC challenge in marginalized and deprived communities in Ghana, given the proven cost-effectiveness of this alternative education innovation.
Synthesis Report_June High Level Conference
The document is a synthesis report summarizing the outcomes of the High-Level Conference on Tackling the Out-of-School Challenge in West Africa, held in June 2024. It consolidates discussions, research evidence, and recommendations from the conference, which addressed the critical issue of out-of-school children and youth (OOSCY) in the sub-region.
Full Report_June High Level Conference
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies and research findings discussed during the June 2024 conference held in Accra, Ghana. The report addresses the critical issue of out-of-school children and youth (OOSCY) in West Africa, highlighting factors such as poverty, inadequate infrastructure, sociocultural barriers, and limited resources as key contributors to the crisis.
Cost of Not Investing in Out of School Children in Ghana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone
The paper examines the economic and social costs of not investing in education for out-of-school children (OOSC) in West African countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. It highlights the critical role education plays in sustainable economic development, poverty reduction, and social equity. The findings demonstrate the direct correlation between educational attainment and economic performance, emphasizing education as a pivotal driver of human capital development and long-term national prosperity.
Tracer Study to assess the current level and situation of Accelerated Education Programs (AEP) Graduates (Sierra Leone)
The study tracks the life trajectories of AEP graduates of AEPs, assessing their completion, retention, and transition rates into formal schooling or employment. It employs a mixed-methods approach, including telephone interviews and face-to-face discussions with beneficiaries and stakeholders. Findings indicate that most graduates successfully transitioned into formal education, though some dropped out due to financial and socio-cultural barriers. The report highlights challenges such as gender biases, family responsibilities, and community pressures affecting educational attainment.
Effectiveness of Accelerated Education Programmes From a Gender Equality Perspective in Rural Marginalized Settings: Evidence from Ghana and Sierra Leone
The paper evaluates the effectiveness of Accelerated Education Programmes (AEPs) in Ghana and Sierra Leone from a gender equality perspective. It highlights the success of AEPs in improving access to education for marginalized children, particularly girls. The findings show high transition rates from AEPs to formal education, with significant improvements in literacy and learning outcomes. The paper recommends increased government investment in AEPs, gender-responsive policies, and community engagement to enhance the sustainability and scalability of these programs.
Assessing the Psychosocial Response and Resilience of Accelerated Education Program Beneficiaries in Conflict and Emergency Zones: Borno State, Nigeria
The report assesses the psychosocial response and resilience of beneficiaries enrolled in the Accelerated Education Program (AEP) in conflict-affected zones of Borno State, Nigeria. Conducted by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), the study examines the mental well-being, coping mechanisms, and support systems available to children affected by armed conflicts and emergencies. The report highlights challenges such as inadequate teacher supply, poor infrastructure, and emotional distress among students. Findings indicate that while AEP has improved access to education and retention rates, many students still face psychological and socio-economic barriers.
Tracer study of AEP beneficiaries in the technical school, world of work and those with special needs in and outside communities including the urban areas (Ghana)
The Tracer study report explores the transformative impact of Accelerated Education Programs (AEPs) in addressing educational disparities among marginalized populations, particularly in rural and underserved communities. By targeting out-of-school children and youth, AEPs aim to provide foundational literacy, numeracy, and life skills while creating pathways for beneficiaries to transition into formal education or vocational opportunities. The study sheds light on the socio-economic contexts that influence AEP implementation and evaluates its impact on beneficiaries’ life trajectories.