Endline Evaluation of the SIKAI Project (EESP)

NIRT Pvt. Ltd. conducted the end-line evaluation of VSO Nepal’s Inclusive Education (SIKAI) Project, which was designed to enhance literacy and numeracy skills and reduce dropout rates among students in grades 1 to 5 across 60 schools in Baglung district. The project focused on fostering an inclusive learning environment by strengthening teacher capacity, improving school infrastructure, and engaging community stakeholders. Special emphasis was placed on ensuring quality education for marginalized children, including girls and children with disabilities, aligning with Nepal’s national education priorities for equitable learning.

Our evaluation assessed the project’s relevance, coherence, effectiveness, efficiency, and long-term impact on educational outcomes, gender equality, and social inclusion. A comparative study, incorporating an experimental group from Badigad and Tamankhola Rural Municipalities, was conducted to analyze the project’s effectiveness. The study also evaluated the sustainability of the project by examining the capacity of local stakeholders to uphold and implement inclusive, gender-responsive, and child-friendly educational policies. Through this research, we highlighted how the initiative empowered parents and caregivers to support children’s learning while fostering a safer and more inclusive school environment for all students.