Enhancing School Maintenance in Jordan: A Collaborative Approach

This case examines the partnership between USAID's ESMP Activity and Jordan's Ministry of Education (MoE) to address maintenance needs in Jordan's 3,600-owned schools. By employing a Collaborating, Learning, and Adapting (CLA) approach, the project aimed to overcome the challenge of inadequate data on school facilities, which hindered informed decision-making and optimal resource allocation.

Jordan's school facility maintenance faced obstacles due to inefficient systems and processes, resulting in a lack of evidence-based decision-making. This prevented the Ministry from creating accurate budgets and sustaining safe learning environments. Despite significant investments in school infrastructure expansion and renovation, data analysis revealed concerning issues, including insufficient disability access, fire safety risks, and substandard WASH toilet/hand wash facilities.

To address these challenges, a multi-faceted CLA strategy was developed. It focused on two core pillars: external collaboration and decision-making. Stakeholders with diverse expertise were identified, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that facilitated knowledge exchange, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and nurtured a sense of collective ownership.

A comprehensive facility audit was conducted to establish a baseline and gather crucial data on school infrastructure. The analysis of this rich dataset uncovered intricate patterns, trends, and correlations, providing profound insights to strengthen decision-making processes. The project's outcomes were significant. Stakeholder engagement reached unprecedented heights, supported by a shared vision and mutual accountability. The accuracy and reliability of data were dramatically enhanced, enabling precise resource allocation and targeted interventions.

This collaborative effort fortified the MoE's survey framework, refined data collection processes, and established a baseline for school facilities' maintenance needs. It showcases the transformative potential of the CLA approach in revolutionizing school maintenance practices. 

By embracing collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and a culture of continuous learning, the project empowered the MoE to promptly address maintenance needs, optimize resource allocation, and ensure improved educational facilities for generations to come.