This rapid review provides examples of integrated programmes that support adolescent girls. The programmes have positive impacts on girls’ empowerment, livelihoods, health and education. Evaluations found that girls especially appreciated having a nearby safe space of their own and being educated by their peers. Girls who participate in integrated programmes may experience the greatest overall gains from programme participation.
The literature suggests that a number of factors contribute to a programme’s success and sustainability. They include:
- Community and parental involvement: The evidence strongly highlights the importance of gaining the support of parents and the community for the programme’s success and long-term sustainability. A number of programmes took the time to explain the programme to parents and had regular meetings with parents/community. The livelihood training component was found in some cases to win parents over to the programmes other aims. A number of programmes went on to include boys and carry out advocacy activities in the local community.
- Government involvement: Having a relationship with local and national government was found in some cases to be beneficial to the scale-up and sustainability of programmes.
- Programme design: Some programmes found that elements of successful programme design include: a long and thorough design process; thorough needs and opportunities assessments; a focus on contextual and relevant skills and information for girls’ everyday lives; programme flexibility in terms of scheduling; support for girls’ participation (e.g. transport allowance and free childcare); and fun activities to motivate participation in awareness raising activities.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: One programme evaluation felt that rigorous evaluation of the programme allowed for effective learning and was critical for making the case for scale-up.
- A number of programmes also highlight that it is important to specifically target the most vulnerable girls to ensure their participation. Continued support for girls who have left programmes is important for ensuring the long-term effectiveness of the programmes aims.
