General Report

Project Title: Pool Funds

Project Overview:

The Pool Funds initiative, generously supported by Cohere, was dedicated to advancing education within the Bondeko Refugee Livelihoods Center through the provision of English classes for adults and early childhood education.

The English for Adults project centered on the enhancement of English language proficiency among both youths and adults in the refugee community. Its primary objectives were to surmount language barriers and bolster participants' communication skills for personal, professional, and social purposes, encompassing reading, speaking, listening, and writing.

The Early Childhood Education project aimed to deliver top-tier early childhood education to children aged 3-7 years within the refugee and low-income host communities. The program emphasized holistic development, encompassing cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth, achieved through a meticulously structured curriculum and engaging activities.

Objectives:

1. Enhance participants' English language skills in reading, speaking, listening, and writing.

2. Instill confidence in the practical application of English in daily life.

3. Prepare participants for employment opportunities requiring proficient English language skills.

4. Promote cognitive development through structured learning activities.

5. Cultivate social and emotional skills through interactive play.

6. Foster physical development through outdoor and indoor activities.

Activities Conducted:

1. English for Adults (EFA)

  Daily Classes: Conducted 2-hour classes four days a week for both levels focusing on grammar, vocabulary, conversation practice, and writing skills.

Workshops: Monthly workshops on specific topics such as job interview preparation, resume writing, and public speaking.

Language Exchange Program: Paired participants with native English speakers for language exchange sessions.

Assessments: Pre-assessment and post-assessment tests to measure progress.

2. Early Childhood Education (ECD)

 Daily Classes: Conducted 4-hour sessions five days a week focusing on literacy, numeracy, arts, and sciences.

Play-Based Learning: Incorporated play-based learning activities to enhance social and emotional development.

Health and Nutrition: Provided nutritious meals.

Parental Involvement: Organized monthly parent-teacher meetings and workshops on child development.

English for Adults (EFA) aimed to enroll 80 students but successfully enrolled 96, including 46 youths, 66 females, and 30 males, with 5 hosts and 91 refugees from diverse backgrounds. The program saw 21 graduates, comprising 13 females and 8 males, all refugees.

The Early Childhood Development (ECD) program targeted 101 pupils, and we achieved this goal with 81 refugees, 20 hosts, 59 females, and 42 males. This resulted in 23 graduates, consisting of 9 females and 14 males.

The outcomes are truly inspiring:

EFA:

- 90% of participants showed significant improvement in their English language skills in post-assessment tests.

- 85% reported increased confidence in using English in their daily lives.

- 5 participants obtained jobs requiring English proficiency, and 10 enrolled in universities due to improved language skills.

ECD:

- 95% of children improved basic literacy and numeracy skills, with 15 successfully joining primary school.

- 90% demonstrated enhanced social and emotional skills.

- 100% of children exhibited satisfactory physical development and health, emphasizing the success of the program.

We observed that maintaining consistent attendance posed a challenge for certain participants due to their work and family commitments. Furthermore, the limited availability of learning resources and materials was attributed to inadequate financial support, consequently impeding effective implementation.

The English for Adults project admirably accomplished its objectives and left a positive impact on the lives of the participants. It is strongly recommended to sustain support and extend the program to address the mounting demand for English language education in the refugee community.

The Early Childhood Education project effectively realized its objectives and significantly bolstered the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of the involved children. Nevertheless, continuous endeavors and enhancements are imperative to perpetuate and broaden the program's influence.