PDF (Lessons learned in drug abuse prevention: a global review)

NATIONAL
● Collaborating with other NGOs when there are specific problems: Individuals with
specific problems, and those who need further help, are referred to relevant NGOs who work
in collaboration with the centre. This is part of a permanent strategy of mobilising existing
organisational infrastructures and social groups.
Monitoring & Evaluation:
There has not yet been any external evaluation of the programme. However, there is an ongoing
internal process evaluation identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the programme.
The evaluation process is participatory and involves all beneficiaries.
Outcomes:
Number of children /youth reached: 7,000
COVERAGE
Number of peers/mediators/educators/teachers etc. trained: 251
Number of families reached: 143
Number of institutions/associations involved: 75
Evaluation has shown that the demand for the services provided is higher than the capacity
of available resources. Capacity needs to be strengthened if all the target population is to be
reached.
Lessons Learned:
“The importance of
sports is that it
provides youth with
the opportunity to
engage in extra
curriculum activities.”
● It was important to involve the beneficiaries from the planning phase of the project,
in order to increase its chance of success: The target group must take ownership of any
programme that involves and targets them. This will ensure a successful outcome, with larger
numbers participating and a more holistic intervention.
● Local experts were used as they are known to the local population and are costeffective:
It is often expensive to bring international consultants into the community. It is
better to employ a local expert who has lived in the country and who understands the local
traditions, culture and people.
● Networking with other organisations and Government agencies was useful:
Networking encourages the sharing of information, resources, and ideas. Organisations and
institutions that network are better equipped to respond innovatively and effectively to drug
abuse problems.
● Mobilising existing organisational structures and social groups proved effective:
Collaborating with other organisations and social groups pools together resources, and
prevents duplication of efforts.
● Funding should be secured so that programme activities can be facilitated: It is
difficult to provide activities without any financial support. In order to avoid the failure of the
project, or disappointment by all parties involved, adequate funding must be secured prior
to project development and implementation.
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