MIdterm performance evaluation : soma umenye activity

This formative, midterm performance evaluation of the USAID Rwanda Soma Umenye early grade reading activity examines the effectiveness of both mid-course corrections made following the initial year of the activity, and current activity implementation and performance. The six-member international and local evaluation team used a mixed-methods approach.

Findings are that the materials provided by Soma Umenye are widely appreciated and used, with varying degrees of mastery. There are concerns about the sustainability and ownership of materials, which still need to be addressed. Sector Education Inspectors, Head Teachers, and Deans of Studies appear to be implementing their coaching duties, but still require dditional support to be effective coaches to teachers.

Soma Umenye has fostered a collaborative relationship with the Rwanda Education Board and Ministry of Education, and has built their staffs? technical capacity. Due to its alignment with government priorities, there is strong demand for Soma Umenye at the central government and district levels. Soma Umenye?s District Advisors have been crucial for strengthening buy-in at the district level, but are stretched thin with their various responsibilities.

Recommendations are to provide additional training for teachers on topics such as classroom management and remediation, enhance systematic documentation of lessons learned, afford more resources at the district level, take advantage of opportunities for collaboration with partners, and engage parents and the community in creating a culture of reading.mmunity in creating a culture of reading.