Course Overview

course description for

BASOCW NGOs and Development (NGODEV05)

Course Description:
NGOs and Development examines the emergence, role, and impact of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in promoting social, political, and economic development. The course analyzes the historical evolution of NGOs, their organizational structures, governance, funding mechanisms, and partnerships with governments, donors, and communities. Special attention is given to NGOs’ contributions in areas such as poverty alleviation, health, education, gender equality, human rights, disaster relief, and environmental sustainability. Students will critically explore both the strengths and limitations of NGOs in development, including issues of accountability, legitimacy, dependency, and sustainability.

Aims of the Course:

• To provide students with an understanding of the origin, growth, and diversity of NGOs in development.

• To analyze the roles of NGOs as development actors at local, national, and global levels.

• To examine the relationship between NGOs, governments, donors, and civil society.

• To equip students with skills in NGO project design, management, and evaluation.

• To encourage critical thinking about challenges of accountability, transparency, and sustainability in NGO operations.

Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students should be able to:

1. Explain the historical evolution and typologies of NGOs.

2. Critically assess the role of NGOs in development theory and practice.

3. Identify strategies used by NGOs to address poverty, inequality, and social injustice.

4. Analyze the relationships and tensions between NGOs, governments, and donors.

5. Apply practical skills in planning, managing, and evaluating NGO projects.

6. Discuss issues of accountability, ethics, and sustainability in NGO development work.