Evaluating a Health Project for Rohingya Refugees: A Multi-Phase Approach
This report describes the evaluation process for a health project supporting Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. The evaluation was conducted in three phases:
Phase 1: Inception (August 2020)
- Establishing roles and expectations: The evaluation team and GUSS staff aligned their understanding of the evaluation’s purpose and roles, based on the Terms of Reference.
- Refining the focus: The evaluation focus was sharpened based on initial discussions and planning.
- Data planning: The team planned for data collection during the field phase.
- Activities: This phase included phone and email communication, a kick-off meeting at GUSS headquarters, and an inception report.
Phase 2: Data Collection (September 2020)
- Document analysis: Review of monitoring reports and other project documents.
- Field visit: Data collection in Rohingya refugee camp 1(E), Kutupalang, Ukhia, and Cox’s Bazar District from September 5th to 8th, 2020.
- Joint data collection: Collaboration with GUSS employees during the field visit.
- Additional interviews: Conducting interviews with relevant stakeholders like local authorities, WHO, and other aid organizations.
Phase 3: Analysis and Reporting (September 2020)
- Data triangulation: Comparing and cross-checking data from various sources and methods to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Draft report discussion: Discussion of draft report findings with GUSS headquarters.
- Final report submission: Submission of the final evaluation report on August 30th, 2020.
Key Evaluation Considerations:
- Long-term prospects for refugees: The evaluation recognized the growing importance of long-term solutions as the refugee crisis extended beyond three years.
- Bangladesh government’s stance: The evaluation acknowledged the government’s desire to integrate refugee healthcare into its existing system, reducing dependence on parallel structures.
- Protection framework principles: The evaluation adhered to the principles outlined in the Joint Response Plan 2020, emphasizing community-led approaches, accountability, and information access.
- Host community relations: Despite rising tensions, the evaluation team maintained objectivity and collected data both independently and in collaboration with GUSS personnel.
- Medical expertise: The evaluation team consulted with doctors in other health institutions for additional insights and analysis.
Overall, this multi-phase evaluation approach provided a comprehensive assessment of the health project, considering the evolving context and ensuring rigorous data collection and analysis.