The Efficacy of the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) in the Provision of Life Skills to Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) in Zimbabwe
Journal: International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR) (Vol.3, No. 8)Publication Date: 2014-08-05
Authors : Nyatsanza Taurai; Lincoln Hlatywayo;
Page : 1481-1488
Keywords : BEAM; Orphans; Vulnerable children; Social safety net; Assets; Life Skills training;
Abstract
The Basic Education Assistant Module (BEAM) is one of the various forms of social protection that the Government of Zimbabwe is providing to vulnerable children. This research study evaluated the effectiveness of BEAM (Basic Education Assistance Module) as an intervention programme on education for orphans and vulnerable children. The study used a mixed methods approach. The survey design underpinned the study. The population included secondary school children who were beneficiaries of BEAM as well as teachers in three Harare schools. Purposive sampling was used to come up with a representative sample of thirty teachers and thirty learners (BEAM beneficiaries). The questionnaire was the sole data collection tool used. The results showed that BEAM limited the number of subjects to studied by beneficiaries. In addition it was established that most BEAM beneficiaries lacked a financial support in their curriculum especially sporting activities, life skills, food and uniformsIt was concluded that while BEAM managed to help orphans and vulnerable children additional funding is needed to enhance their quality of life. The major recommendations made include the need for BEAM to give independence in the number of subjects to be done and written at Ordinary Level, informed by the pupil capability. It was also recommended that BEAM should go beyond the payment of fees and include the purchsing of uniforms, books and supplementary food. The responsible authorities were also encouraged to reduce bias in the selection of BEAM beneficiaries. Lastly it was recommended that support systems be put in place for orphans and vulnerable children in transition to employment and adulthood.
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