Mozambique - Education and Manpower Development Project

 Education and manpower development project Report No: ; Type: Report/Evaluation Memorandum ; Country: Mozambique; Region: Africa; Sector: Primary Education; Major Sector: Education; ProjectID: P001763 Mozambique: Education and Manpower Development Project (Credit 1907-MOZ) The Mozambique Education and Manpower Development project, supported by Credit 1907-MOZ for US$15.9 million equivalent, was approved in FY88. The credit was fully disbursed and closed on schedule on December 31, 1995. The Implementation Completion Report (ICR) was prepared by the Africa Regional Office. The borrower's full report on the implementation and achievements of the project is included as Annex B. Project objectives were to: (a) raise the quality and efficiency of primary education in Maputo in order to increase literacy and numeracy among primary school-age children; (b) strengthen parts of the professional training system in order to fill critical manpower gaps; and (c) strengthen the capacity for education sector policy analysis with a focus on financial management and planning. For these purposes, the project financed civil works, staff training, textbook development and distribution, and institutional development activities. Because the project was carried out in the midst of a civil war, activities were concentrated in the capital, Maputo. The project was the first operation in the Mozambique education sector. Considering the country's lack of experience with Bank operations and difficulties resulting from the civil war, the government performed well. Project objectives were substantially achieved, and some activities (e.g., learning materials and enrollments) exceeded original targets. Beneficiary participation helped define needs at the local level and address the educational needs of poor children. Despite procurement disputes and contractor delays, the planned primary and post-secondary schools were eventually built. Sector management was improved through innovative participatory consultancies, and the planning and budgeting capacity of the Ministry of Education was improved. The Bank provided helpful advice through frequent supervisions. It was also flexible, modifying project activities as conditions required. The Operations Evaluation Department agrees with the ratings in the ICR. Project outcome is rated as satisfactory and institutional development as substantial. Sustainability is rated as uncertain, due to the difficult political conditions in Mozambique and the influx of migrants. A follow-on project is already under implementation. And, to sustain the achievements of both projects, an integrated sector operation in basic education is under preparation. Bank performance is rated as satisfactory. The project outcome indicates that beneficiary participation can greatly aid implementation in severe and dangerous conditions. It also shows that training and consciousness-raising is needed for new borrowers to help them understand the rationale for procurement regulations and their long-term benefits. The ICR is satisfactory, providing a clear and comprehensive account of project implementation. An audit is planned.