DOMINO LEADERSHIP

COMMUNITY-BASED LEARNING ENHANCEMENT MODEL (CBLEM)

Subtitle: A Domino Approach to Strengthening Home and Community Learning in Nyiovura Ward, Ayivu Division, Arua City

Implementing Partner: St. Michael International Nursery and Primary School

Project Duration: April 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026

Project Overview

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted critical weaknesses in education systems, especially the over-reliance on classroom learning without adequate home-based support. In Nyiovura Ward, limited parental literacy, weak community learning structures, and the lack of localized learning materials contributed to declining academic performance among primary school learners.

The Community-Based Learning Enhancement Model (CBLEM) is a low-cost, scalable, and sustainable intervention designed to strengthen home learning through a domino-effect training model. Teachers train selected community members, who then transfer knowledge to others, creating a multiplier effect across households.

The project will run for six months, directly training 50 community facilitators and indirectly reaching over 250 households and 500 learners, with a modest external budget facilitation of $500 by Cavendish University Uganda. This model demonstrates how community-driven solutions can deliver high-impact educational outcomes.

Project Goals and Objectives

Goal: Improve literacy levels and academic performance among primary school learners through strengthened home and community learning systems.
Train 50 community facilitators in literacy and learner support.
Increase parental involvement in children’s education.
Develop localized learning materials.
Establish a sustainable domino-based learning model.

Approach and Methodology

The project adopts a domino-effect training model, based on knowledge multiplication. Teachers serve as primary trainers, equipping community members with literacy and mentorship skills. These trained facilitators then transfer knowledge to others, creating a ripple effect.

The methodology integrates participatory learning techniques, practical demonstrations, and continuous mentorship to ensure effective transfer of knowledge and skills. It encourages peer learning, strengthens community ownership, and reduces reliance on external facilitators.

Key Activities

Community mobilization and sensitization with local leaders and stakeholders.
Selection and training of 50 community facilitators in literacy and learner support.
Development of localized learning materials for home and community use.
Implementation of home-based learning support activities: homework supervision, reading sessions, learner monitoring.
Continuous monitoring, mentorship, and evaluation.

Target Beneficiaries

Direct beneficiaries: 50 community facilitators receiving training and mentorship.
Indirect beneficiaries: 250+ households and approximately 500 primary school learners.
Broader community: improved educational outcomes and strengthened social cohesion.

Expected Results

Outputs: 50 facilitators trained; localized learning materials developed.
Outcomes: Increased parental involvement, improved literacy levels, enhanced homework completion rates.
Impact: Improved academic performance and establishment of sustainable community learning systems.

Implementation Plan

The project will run over six months:

Month 1: Planning and community mobilization.
Month 2: Preparation and logistics for training, and Training of community facilitators.
Months 3-5: Community-level implementation.
Month 6: Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting.

Monitoring & Evaluation

Baseline and endline assessments, monthly progress reports, and field visits will track performance. Tools include attendance registers, assessment forms, and household surveys. Monitoring ensures accountability, tracks progress, and informs decision-making.

Budget and Sustainability

Budget: $500 covered by Cavendish University; $2,600 by St. Michael International Nursery and Primary School; Total: $3,100. This covers training, mobilization, materials, and monitoring.

Sustainability: The domino model ensures continuous knowledge transfer. Integration with adult education programs and community ownership will sustain the intervention beyond the project period.

Partnerships

Implementing Partner: St. Michael International Nursery and Primary School, Arua City.
Technical Support: Cavendish University Uganda & Cornerstone Domino
Alignment: Kyambogo University Andragogy Lab.