Assignment Name: In-Depth Monitoring of the Project Titled “Secondary Education Sector Investment Program (SESIP)”

Country: Bangladesh

Client Name: Implementation Monitoring & Evaluation Division (IMED), Ministry of Planning, Government of Bangladesh

 The In-Depth Monitoring Study of the Secondary Education Sector Investment Program (SESIP) was conducted to evaluate the implementation and impact of SESIP, which aimed to enhance the quality, inclusiveness, and governance of secondary education in Bangladesh. SESIP was a long-term investment program implemented between 2014 and 2020, supported by the Government of Bangladesh in partnership with development organizations such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the International Development Association (IDA), and other international donors. The program focused on strengthening institutional frameworks, expanding access to quality education, and improving learning outcomes.

The evaluation assessed SESIP’s achievements against its objectives, including the establishment of a robust secondary education governance system, enhanced teacher training programs, the development of a competency-based curriculum, and the introduction of inclusive educational practices. The study also examined the alignment of SESIP with the national education strategy, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and broader socio-economic development goals, particularly focusing on equitable access and gender inclusion.

The in-depth monitoring study used a mixed-method approach to evaluate SESIP’s performance and its impact on students, teachers, and stakeholders. By identifying strengths, challenges, and lessons learned, the study provided actionable recommendations for policy formulation and the design of future education programs.

The DM WATCH team provided the following key services during the study:

Comprehensive Document Review:

• Conducted a detailed desk review of SESIP-related policies, guidelines, and reports, including the project design, annual progress reports, and development partner agreements.
• Assessed alignment with national policies such as the National Education Policy 2010 and international goals like SDG 4.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Designed and implemented a robust data collection framework, utilizing quantitative and qualitative tools.
• Conducted 44 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with policymakers, educators, and program implementers to gather insights into SESIP’s achievements and challenges.
• Organized 32 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with students, teachers, and community stakeholders to assess the on-ground impact of the program.
• Administered surveys (640 beneficiary students under 32 educational institutions) and conducted field visits across project sites to validate program outcomes.

Evaluation of Program Outcomes:

• Assessed the effectiveness of teacher training programs and curriculum reforms in improving teaching quality and student learning outcomes.
• Evaluated the implementation of inclusive education practices and access for disadvantaged groups, including girls and marginalized communities.
• Examined governance improvements within the secondary education system, including institutional capacity development and policy enhancements.

Reporting and Dissemination:

• Prepared a comprehensive monitoring report, presenting findings on SESIP’s achievements, gaps, and areas for improvement.
• Highlighted recommendations for improving program efficiency, sustainability, and replicability in future initiatives.
• Organized validation workshops to share findings with stakeholders and incorporate their feedback into the final report.

Policy Recommendations:

• Provided evidence-based recommendations to enhance the implementation of education sector strategies, emphasizing equity, governance, and quality improvements.
• Suggested mechanisms to address identified gaps, such as dropout rates, gender disparities, and resource allocation challenges.

This evaluation not only validated SESIP’s contributions to the secondary education system in Bangladesh but also provided a roadmap for strengthening future educational interventions.