Strategies such as decision-making, open communication, and community outreach were highlighted as key to stakeholder engagement. I observed these strategies in action at a local primary school that partnered with the community.
Example from Experience:
In my school we collaborated with the Mother’s club and other women groups to mobilize their colleagues for a wider community participation and engagement in the day to day affairs of the school. This initiative help the school to generate both materials and financial resources, they also took part in the monthly cleaning of the school. The women also support children from less privileged homes and those with special needs. They once linked the school with health specialist in the areas of eye and ear care services. The school also collaborated with volunteer groups such as the scouts, the red cross and the Girl Guides. These groups offer voluntary services such as forth nightly cleansing exercises, first aid and skills training to the students.
The materials such as text books were used to equip the school library and the funds were used to procure teaching and learning resources together with additional learning support from volunteer groups and conducive learning environment (clean) have contributed to the pupils overall performance in both internal and external assessments.
Challenges:
One major challenge I experienced in the school was low participation among male parents specially civil servants or those with inflexible work schedules. To address this the school hosted meetings on weekends or evenings to be to able to include them .
Suggestions for Enhancing Partnerships:
Additional strategies that could enhance partnerships include:
a. Creating a community advisory board to encourage community based decision making.
b. Establishing regular feedback loops through surveys or community forums especially “Whasapp Groups”
c. Building the capacity of staff on cultural competence and community engagement