Current Sponsored Research Projects

Enhancing Strategic Information: Establishing an evidence-base for OVC programming

Effective dates: July 2008 – April, 2013
Funding Source: USAID South Africa
Tulane's Role: Subcontractor to John Snow, Inc
Country: South Africa
Principal Investigator: Tonya Renee Thurman

Given the lack of information on the impact of care and support strategies for (OVC), and the scale of the problem, there is an urgent need to learn how to improve the reach and effectiveness of program efforts. This project will explore the quality, scope and comprehensiveness of activities and key outcomes leading to the improved well-being of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC).  There are three main components of this activity: (1) Case studies, (2) Topical Papers and (3) Program Assessments. Case studies will document lessons learned that can be considered by the selected organization and applied to other OVC initiatives. Two case studies will be completed each year on identified programs that receive funding from Unites States Agency for International Development in South Africa (USAID SA). In addition, a Case Study Development Manual will be generated to support other programmers to replicate the approach. One topical paper will be developed each year to address identified issues affecting OVC program delivery and quality. Assessments of four separate OVC programs that receive funding from USAID SA will be conducted throughout the project to identify best practices for serving OVC. This activity will provide data on the priority needs of OVC, lessons learned from interventions, as well as evidence concerning the effectiveness of program models. Assessment results will be conveyed within Program Guidance papers that provide policy and program-specific recommendations. It is expected that information gathered through this activity will guide programs in their efforts to develop, improve and scale-up programs for OVC in South Africa and beyond.