Evaluation of Community Development Programme in South Africa

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Matthew Osaigbovo Ovbiebo
(Faculty of Education Sciences, Potchefstroom Campus, North-West University, South Africa)

Abstract: There are various community development programmes in South Africa but this study assessed functional literacy programme in South Africa to ascertain the extent to which the programme have served the people. In pursuant of this goal, the following research questions were put forward: Are the community development programmes addressing the adult learners’ needs in the areas? And if they do, has the programme been of help to the development of the community and improve the working efficiency of adult participants in this programmes after training? A qualitative research paradigm was followed in this study to collect data through interviews, focus group and observations. Purposive sampling was used to select information. Data analysis involved identifying similarities and presenting a discussion of the research. Informants’ consent was requested for the interviews. The major inferences drawn from this study was that these programmes were quite satisfying except for practical; skills acquisition, materials and distance of instructors from the place of learning (programme). These were identified as problems affecting the working of community development programme in the areas. These and other findings formed the basis for the recommendations made in the research.

Key words: community, community development, evaluation, skill acquisitions