Multiple Epistemologies

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Participatory evaluation of the M. Puthur rural expansion project of national Y.W.C.A.
(Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) , 1986-08) Manilal V.
The evaluation is participatory, and it was carried out for the Rural Expansion Project of the National Y.W.C.A in Thottiyam, Tiruchirapalli district, Tamil Nadu. The project’s main goals were related to adult education, development of village-based organizations and local leadership, women’s emancipation, youth activism, and economic development. The assessment revealed that adult education centers play an essential role in the growth of leadership and village-based organizations, as well as the power of women in the community. For instance, Mahila Mandals and Youth Clubs were formed in many villages, but the level of their development varies significantly. Moreover, the project facilitated access to government developmental schemes and loans, and it helped animate the staff and the village animators. The findings also indicated weaknesses related to group organization, collective action, staff coordination, and the transition from government dependence to self-sustaining. The evaluation recommended developing the staff’s and animators’ conceptual and practical knowledge of group organization and action, getting involved in the development of the village-based organizations, and working on time-bounded strategies for their progressive sustainability.