Adroit Associates conducted an independent final evaluation of the Goldsmith Vocational Training Project implemented by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in Afghanistan. The evaluation assessed the project’s relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability in improving vocational skills, income generation, and economic resilience among beneficiaries.
The study generated evidence on how targeted vocational training, combined with practical skill development and market-oriented approaches, contributed to enhanced livelihood opportunities and long-term economic empowerment.
Afghanistan continues to face high unemployment, limited livelihood opportunities, and economic instability, particularly affecting youth and vulnerable populations. Access to marketable skills remains a critical barrier to income generation and self-reliance.
The Goldsmith Vocational Training Project was designed to address these challenges by equipping beneficiaries with specialized technical skills in goldsmithing and jewelry-making, aligned with local market demand. The project aimed to create sustainable livelihood pathways through hands-on training, mentorship, and support for small business development.
Interventions included structured vocational training programs, provision of tools and materials, technical coaching, and support for market linkage and enterprise development. The project also emphasized inclusion of vulnerable groups, including women and economically marginalized individuals.
The evaluation examined whether these interventions translated into improved employment outcomes, increased income levels, and strengthened economic resilience.
Project Objectives
The evaluation aimed to assess the extent to which the project improved vocational competencies, income generation capacity, and employment outcomes for beneficiaries.
It focused on measuring skill acquisition, transition into employment or self-employment, business sustainability, and income growth. The evaluation also examined the project’s effectiveness in aligning training with market demand and its contribution to long-term livelihood resilience.
Additionally, the study assessed inclusivity, particularly the participation and economic empowerment of women and vulnerable groups, as well as the sustainability of skills utilization beyond the project lifecycle.
Methodological Approach
Adroit Associates applied a mixed-methods evaluation approach integrating quantitative and qualitative data collection.
A structured survey was conducted with project beneficiaries to assess changes in skills, employment status, and income levels. Quantitative analysis enabled measurement of outcome-level changes and comparison against project targets.
Qualitative data collection included Key Informant Interviews and Focus Group Discussions with trainees, trainers, project staff, and community stakeholders. This provided deeper insights into training quality, market relevance, challenges, and success factors.
The evaluation framework was guided by OECD-DAC criteria — Relevance, Effectiveness, Efficiency, Impact, and Sustainability — integrated with Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) considerations.
Quality assurance measures included enumerator training, field supervision, data validation processes, and adherence to ethical standards such as informed consent, confidentiality, and secure data handling.
Impact and Strategic Significance
The evaluation found that the Goldsmith Vocational Training Project contributed to improved technical skills, increased income opportunities, and enhanced self-employment among beneficiaries. Many participants were able to establish or expand small businesses, generating sustainable income streams.
The project demonstrated strong relevance to local market demand, enabling trainees to apply acquired skills directly within their communities. Women’s participation contributed to increased economic inclusion and financial independence in several cases.
However, sustainability outcomes varied depending on access to capital, market linkages, and continued technical support. The findings highlight the importance of integrating vocational training with business development support and market access strategies.
The evaluation provides actionable insights for designing market-driven vocational programs that effectively bridge skills development with sustainable livelihood outcomes in fragile contexts.
This assignment reinforces Adroit Associates’ expertise in evaluating skills development and livelihood programs with a strong focus on economic empowerment and sustainability.