Mid-term evaluation of SAIH international programme work
Funding
Myanmar, Nicaragua, Zimbabwe
2020-2021
Higher Education I Gender & Inclusion
Evaluation & Monitoring I Human Rights I Decolonisation
Introduction
Paeradigms conducted a mid-term evaluation of 17 projects, funded by NORAD and implemented by SAIH with its partners, focused on advancing human rights, equitable higher education, and academic freedom in Myanmar, Nicaragua, and Zimbabwe.
Objectives
Paeradigms was brought in to:
Evaluate the program’s effectiveness, specifically the theory of change and partnership model.
Assist SAIH in securing funding renewal from Norad for the 2022-2026 program phase.
Provide recommendations for program improvement based on the evaluation findings
Background
SAIH, short for the Norwegian Students’ and Academics’ International Assistance Fun, focuses on international development cooperation and advocacy primarily engaging with issues related to higher education, social justice, and human rights. The organisation has development projects in Latin America, Southern Africa, and Asia. This evaluation encompasses the 2018-2021 development cooperation strategy, which involved 30 partnerships across seven countries, supported by a comprehensive Norad grant.
Approach
Paeradigms’ methodology involved:
Targeted sampling: Concentrating on specific regions focused on Myanmar, Zimbabwe, and Nicaragua.
Comprehensive data collection: Undertaking an extensive desk review complemented by 80 interviews with central stakeholders and beneficiaries.
Adaptive hybrid model: Engaging local consultants and facilitating remote workshops and meetings, effectively blending local insights while adjusting to COVID-19 travel constraints.
Outcome
Paeradigms successfully delivered:
A comprehensive mid-term evaluation report with most significant change stories (MSC).
Recommendations for the next programme phase.
A validation workshop.