Course Overview

detailed semester course outline for

BASOCW Poverty Reduction Strategy (POVRS07)

(Designed for a 14–16 week semester, adaptable to contact hours)

Module 1: Introduction to Poverty and Development

• Definition and types of poverty: absolute, relative, multidimensional

• Causes and consequences of poverty

• Poverty measurement and indicators: income, consumption, HDI, MPI

• Relationship between poverty, inequality, and development

Module 2: Theoretical Approaches to Poverty Reduction

• Classical and contemporary theories of poverty

• Structural and systemic perspectives

• Human development and capability approach

• Rights-based approach to poverty reduction

Module 3: National Poverty Reduction Policies

• National frameworks and strategies for poverty reduction

• Role of government ministries and agencies

• Policy design, planning, and implementation

• Monitoring, evaluation, and accountability mechanisms

Module 4: International Frameworks and Global Strategies

• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 1: No Poverty)

• World Bank, IMF, and international development programs

• Regional initiatives: African Union Agenda 2063, SADC poverty frameworks

• Comparative analysis of global poverty reduction strategies

Module 5: Community-Based Poverty Reduction Approaches

• Participatory development and empowerment strategies

• Microfinance, income-generating projects, and entrepreneurship support

• Skills development and vocational training

• Community mobilization and social safety nets

Module 6: Social Protection and Safety Nets

• Cash transfer programs, subsidies, and social grants

• Health, education, and nutrition interventions for vulnerable groups

• Targeting mechanisms and inclusion strategies

• Evaluating effectiveness of social protection programs

Module 7: Gender, Poverty, and Development

• Gendered dimensions of poverty

• Women’s economic empowerment and participation

• Policy interventions to reduce gender-based poverty disparities

• Case studies of successful gender-focused poverty reduction programs

Module 8: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Impact Assessment

• Designing indicators for poverty reduction programs

• Tools for monitoring and evaluation: surveys, participatory appraisal, GIS

• Assessing socio-economic and environmental impact

• Lessons learned from program implementation

Module 9: Contemporary Issues in Poverty Reduction

• Urbanization, migration, and slum development

• Climate change and its impact on poverty

• Technology and innovation in poverty reduction

• Challenges and opportunities for sustainable poverty alleviation

Teaching Methods

• Lectures, seminars, and group discussions

• Case studies of national and international poverty reduction programs

• Field visits to community-based poverty reduction projects

• Group projects and participatory exercises

• Research assignments and presentations

Assessment Methods

• Continuous assessment: assignments, case study analysis, field reports (40%)

• Midterm examination (20%)

• Final examination or research project (40%)