Navigator’s Kit: Graduation Approach
Beyond Restoration: The Graduation Approach in Livelihood Restoration of Project-Affected People
Video transcription:
Slide 1: Title (1.5 minutes) Welcome to our presentation on ‘Beyond Restoration: The Graduation Approach in Project-Affected Livelihoods.’ Today, we’ll explore an innovative framework that goes beyond traditional compensation and restoration methods to co-create sustainable solutions with communities affected by development projects. This approach has shown results in various contexts worldwide and offers promising applications for livelihood restoration programs in a project-induced displacement setting. CIG had the opportunity to evaluate the suitability of this framework in a research partnership with the company TotalEnergies and their research & development arm OneTech. It is our pleasure to share with you some of the highlights of the study.
Slide 2: What is the Graduation Approach? (2.5 minutes) The Graduation Approach emerged in 2002 through the pioneering work of an NGO called BRAC, the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee. What makes this approach unique is its comprehensive, time-bound strategy that combines multiple interventions over an 18-24 month period. Unlike traditional poverty alleviation methods, this approach doesn’t just provide temporary relief but creates a sustainable pathway out of poverty through carefully sequenced support mechanisms. The approach has been successfully implemented across diverse settings, from urban environments to refugee communities, demonstrating its adaptability and effectiveness.
Slide 3: The Four Pillars (2.5 minutes) The strength of the Graduation Approach lies in its four interconnected pillars. First, Livelihoods Promotion provides the foundation through cash or asset transfers and targeted training, giving participants the tools they need to generate income. Second, Social Protection ensures basic security through crisis relief and access to essential services, creating a safety net that prevents backsliding. Third, Financial Inclusion opens doors to economic participation through savings, credit access, and crucial financial literacy training. Finally, Social Empowerment builds confidence and community connections, ensuring long-term success beyond the program’s duration. These pillars work together synergistically, creating a comprehensive support system for participants.
Slide 4: Implementation Phases (2 minutes) Implementation follows three critical phases. The Feasibility phase involves thorough context analysis and market assessment, ensuring the program is appropriately tailored to local conditions. During the Preparation phase, we design specific interventions and develop clear graduation criteria. The Implementation phase then carefully targets the most vulnerable groups and delivers support in a sequential manner.
Slide 5: Key Features of Support (2 minutes) The support features of the Graduation Approach are carefully sequenced to create lasting impact. We begin with immediate consumption support to address urgent needs, followed by comprehensive skills training. Weekly coaching sessions provide ongoing guidance and support. Financial education and community group formation create sustainable support networks. Access to social services ensures long-term stability. This combination of immediate relief and long-term planning creates a robust foundation for sustainable livelihood development.
Slide 6: The Role of Coaches (2 minutes) Coaches play a pivotal role in the success of the Graduation Approach. Through regular household visits, they monitor progress and provide crucial support. They deliver life skills training and offer psychosocial support when needed. Financial guidance helps participants make informed decisions about their resources. Perhaps most importantly, coaches facilitate connections within the community, creating support networks that last beyond the program’s duration. This personal, ongoing support is what sets the Graduation Approach apart from traditional intervention methods.
Slide 7: Benefits for Project-Affected Communities (2 minutes) The benefits of this approach extend far beyond simple economic compensation for losses to land and resources. By providing tailored, household-level support, we ensure that interventions are relevant and effective for each family’s unique situation. The focus on sustainable livelihood development creates long-term stability, while community empowerment ensures lasting impact. Special attention to vulnerable groups helps prevent anyone from being left behind. Regular monitoring helps us track success and make necessary adjustments throughout the process.
Slide 8: Graduation Criteria Examples (2 minutes) Success in the Graduation Approach is measured through clear, achievable criteria across multiple dimensions. In terms of social protection, we look for indicators such as food security and access to basic services. Livelihood promotion success is measured through diverse income sources and asset accumulation. Financial progress is tracked through regular savings and credit access. Social integration is evaluated through community participation and equal voice within households. These criteria provide clear benchmarks for progress while ensuring comprehensive development.
Slide 9: Implementation Success Factors (2 minutes) Successful implementation relies on several key factors. Early preparation ensures we have the right foundation in place. Strong coordination of multiple implementation partners maximizes available resources and expertise. Regular monitoring allows us to track progress and make necessary adjustments. Flexibility in adaptation helps us respond to changing circumstances. Community dialogue ensures buy-in and sustainability. Adequate resourcing and skilled coaching staff are essential for program success.
Slide 10: Conclusion (1.5 minutes) In conclusion, the Graduation Approach represents a shift in how projects can approach support to affected people in restoring their livelihoods. By moving beyond simple economic restoration to embrace a human rights-based approach, we create more sustainable and effective solutions. This approach has the potential to provide a clear path to livelihoods re-establishment with measurable, long-term success metrics. Thank you for your attention. If you would like to know more about the Graduation Approach do reach out to us.
