Utilizing Participatory Data Collection Methods to Evaluate Programs for Very Young Adolescents: An Evaluation of Save the Children’s Choices Curriculum in Siraha, Nepal

In order to improve gender equity among very young adolescents in Nepal, Save the Children developed the Choices curriculum, designed around eight participatory age and developmentally appropriate activities. The curriculum was piloted in Siraha district, in the Terai region of Nepal, which is known to have a high prevalence of practices that perpetuate gender inequity, such as early marriage, early motherhood and dowry. Choices explores the themes of gender inequity and power, identifying small actions that can promote gender equity and respect, and empower girls. Choices curriculum has proven effective in creating a shift toward more gender-equitable norms in terms of household and school roles and responsibilities among young girls and boys. Building on its success, Save the Children is now developing complementary approaches for engaging parents,teachers and community leaders.