End of Program Report - Taking Action: Recommendations and Resources

This 66-page evaluation explores YouthNet, a 5-year (2001-2006) programme designed to improve the reproductive health (RH) and HIV prevention behaviours of youth 10 to 24 years old, worldwide. YouthNet focused on a variety of technical areas, with specific expertise in sex education, peer education, RH services for youth, and media and behaviour change communication (BCC). The project had 4 cross-cutting themes: gender, community involvement, youth participation, and policy. Monitoring and evaluation was integrated throughout the project's global, regional, and country-level programming. Funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the YouthNet team was led by Family Health International (FHI), and included CARE International USA [United States of America] and RTI International.

This report synthesises the central findings from YouthNet's work into 10 results, incorporating findings from research, technical assistance, country activities, global leadership, and publications. Resources related to the results are included in the annotated descriptions of publications in Appendix C. The conclusion of the report lists all 37 recommendations for taking action, and points to challenges ahead in building on YouthNet's work.

An excerpt from the Executive Summary follows:

1. "High Quality Curriculum-Based Programs Change Risky RH/HIV Behaviors - YouthNet's global review of 83 evaluated curriculum-based sex and HIV education programs found that about two-thirds of the programs that met the study criteria changed sexual behaviors in positive ways. Characteristics of successful programs were identified by the YouthNet desk review, and additional characteristics based on implementation experiences were added at a follow-up consultation meeting. The resulting 24 standards for curriculum development were published and disseminated.
2. Answers Emerge on Peer Education Effectiveness and Provide Guidance for More Rigorous Research and Program Implementation - YouthNet research in Zambia and the Dominican Republic identified the core components of quality peer education programs. YouthNet worked with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Youth Peer Education Network (Y-PEER) to develop a five-part toolkit to improve the quality of peer education programs; YouthNet also expanded and strengthened the Y-PEER network in Africa.
3. Youth, Especially Those at Greatest Risk, Need Integrated RH/HIV Services - YouthNet research on various types of HIV and RH services provided to young clients found that more attention to contraception was needed. In addition, studies in Africa and the Caribbean demonstrated the feasibility of reaching youth who are at greatest risk of pregnancy and HIV with integrated services and education.
4. Youth-Adult Partnerships Build Alliances to Address Needs of Youth - The development of the Youth Participation Guide responded to a demand for a comprehensive resource on approaches and training in youth participation. In addition, YouthNet demonstrated how advocacy can increase youth participation and leadership, working with others in leading the 'YouthForce' at the International AIDS conferences in 2002 (Barcelona), 2004 (Bangkok), and 2006 (Toronto).
5. Effective Systems of Synthesizing and Utilizing Information Contribute to Improved Programs - To synthesize resources and research findings in this growing field and to meet the diverse needs of different audiences, YouthNet developed five publication series, major new tools and curricula, and innovative dissemination strategies. The program emphasized utilization of the information and tools through meetings, an online forum, and partnerships with other organizations.
6. Media Shape Youth Norms, Opinions, and Discourse - YouthNet supported and evaluated the 2002 Staying Alive campaign of MTV Networks that reached 800 million homes worldwide. The evaluation documented how the campaign increased interpersonal communication and positively influenced individual beliefs. Locally relevant print publications were found to help youth personalize information and make positive changes.
7. Community-Based Initiatives Stimulate Supportive Actions - YouthNet conducted participatory assessments and capacity building activities among community-based organizations that addressed sexuality and RH/HIV issues among youth. Several of these initiatives resulted in the engagement of Christian and Muslim leaders and the development of a three-part family life education series from a faith perspective. In addition, a technical consultation led by YouthNet synthesized information globally on the impact of community involvement.
8. Policy Development and Advocacy Draw Attention to Youth Needs - YouthNet helped to strengthen youth RH/HIV policies and strategic plans in several countries, as well as to facilitate the repositioning of family planning activities targeting youth in West Africa. Furthermore, YouthNet collaborated with the POLICY Project in compiling policies worldwide and developing an internet tool for interactive sharing.
9. Addressing Social and Gender Norms Facilitates Changes in Risky Behaviors - YouthNet research in Tanzania clarified strategies for 'faithfulness' interventions, and research in Jamaica and Uganda explored possible links between unintended pregnancy and sexual coercion. In addition, YouthNet successfully adapted a gender training manual for boys and young men in Tanzania.
10. Capacity Building and Community Involvement Are Key to Successful Country Programs - YouthNet's involvement of local partners and capacity building in its country programs laid the groundwork for sustainable work with youth. The Tanzania program reached more than four million youth and one million community members. YouthNet's global leadership and country experiences provided mutually enriching guidance to improve approaches to youth programming."