Title: A Benchmark Study and Impact Assessment of Child Rehabilitation Program of NASPEC

Abstract: NASPEC was running a 16-month long Child Rehabilitation Program in two phases, of six months and ten months. The main goal of the program was to bring child workers in the carpet industry of Nepal and enroll them in literacy classes, in addition to imparting some vocational training. After a certain period of stay in the rehabilitation centre, the program puts the children to full-time schooling. If necessary, NASPEC provides financial support to the children's parents to cover the cost of education. During the 16 month period, the inflow and outflow of children is a regular phenomenon.

New ERA produced periodical reports regarding the impact of the program on the children at the centre. The study being carried out by New ERA has two components: (a) benchmark study; and (b) impact assessment of the Child Rehabilitation Program. The first periodical impact report found that majority of the children has gone back to the carpet industry because (a) their parents are working there, and (b) they are in abject poverty.  It was also found that after joining the rehabilitation centres (a) the sleeping and entertainment hours of the children have increased, and (b) more children have become literate. However, the gender disparity testifies that girls are lagging far behind boys.

Sponsored By: National Society for the Protection of Environment and Children (NASPEC).  June 1998.   Availability: Photocopy

 

Close Window