Location:
International Food Policy Research Institute
2033 K Street, NW, Washington, DC
Fourth Floor Conference Facility
Thursday, June 28, 2001
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.

Bangladesh has led the world in implementing creative development programs such as the Grameen Bank and the Comilla model of rural development. Bangladesh has also implemented the first ever Food for Schooling (FFS) program, which may soon be added to the list of successful anti-poverty initiatives.

The Food for Schooling was designed to develop long-term human capital by linking household’s receipt of food to primary school enrollment of children from low-income households. By sending children to school, families receive food. In 2000, the program covered about 27% of all primary schools in Bangladesh. Out of 5.2 million students enrolled in schools with FFS programs, about 40% received FFS. At that time, about two million families benefited from the FFS program. IFPRI surveyed primary schools with and without the FFS program and collected information from FFS foodgrain dealers, program implementation officials, schools, and a cross section of households including program beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. IFPRI researchers used a variety of qualitative and quantitative methods to evaluate the program.

Dr. Ahmed will present recent findings of a systematic evaluation of the FFS program in Bangladesh. In addition to the presentation of the research findings, Dr. Kiene will discuss the appropriateness of FFS Bangladesh serving as a model for the design of similar programs in other countries.

Kindly RSVP to 202-862-8107 or Email: S.Hill-Lee@cgiar.org.