A Theory and Process Evaluation of the Yabonga GAP Year Student Programme

Adams, Brent

A Theory and Process Evaluation of the Yabonga GAP Year Student Programme

Thesis / Dissertation

2025

Publisher

University of Cape town

Department

Institute for Monitoring and Evaluation

Faculty

Faculty of Commerce

Abstract

There is a significant need for positive outcomes amongst South African youth, especially given that they make up a considerable proportion of the population. This group is highly vulnerable and faced with a multitude of socio-economic challenges, particularly lack of resources and job opportunities, poverty, and drug and alcohol abuse. Youth development programmes play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing at-risk youth with psycho-social support, skills development, and social capital to enable them to lead improved lives with more prospects. This dissertation presents the findings of an evaluation of the Yabonga GAP year programme, a youth development programme operating in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. The evaluation comprises a theory evaluation and a process evaluation. A blended research approach was utilised, whereby a combination of both qualitative and quantitative research methods was applied to address the evaluation questions posed. Data collection methods included interviews with programme staff, focus group discussions and a survey of Yabonga GAP students. The overall findings indicate that a) the programme's theory was highly consistent with similar youth development programmes, and the causal logic was deemed plausible; b) programme youth participants were satisfied with the programme activities; c) the programme was implemented with high levels of fidelity; and d) there was a moderate level of uncertainty amongst youth who completed the programme, in terms of the next steps in their lives. The evaluation presented many positive results and outcomes; however, the evaluator made several recommendations and enhancements for programme improvement based on the findings of the evaluation. This research contributes to an area of limited research on evaluations within the South African youth development context.

Keywords

Commerce

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