An Assessment Of The Outcomes Of An ILO/IPEC Project To Combat The Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of Children (CSEC) In Accra

Abstract

This study is an outcome evaluation which sought to assess results of an 18 month project implemented using the logic model, to prevent and withdraw children from commercial sexual exploitation. One hundred and fourteen (114) child beneficiaries 36 female caregivers and representatives of implementing and collaborating agencies were engaged in the study. Quantitative data collection tools were used to gather information which was analysed using the SPSS version 16.0. Major findings from the study were that, there was increase understanding of child labour and commercial sexual exploitation of children in the project communities as a result of awareness raising and sensitization programs organized under the project. Again, direct support by way of educational materials and training tools and equipment received by project participants enrolled in school and vocational training, as part of the project interventions, had helped reduce vulnerabilities of children to labour and sexual exploitation as loitering has reduced. Also, financial support received by female caregivers, even though inadequate, helped them boost their businesses and increase profit, making them more capable of providing for their children. Participants in the study came up with some recommendations including continuous support for beneficiaries, increased support for caregivers, expansion of project to meet the needs to other children, nationwide sensitization on child labour and CSEC, increased capacity of law enforcement agencies and other institutions with child protection mandate to be able to address child abuse cases more professionally, better rehabilitation and support systems for survivors of abuse.