GLoWS (Guided Learning on Water and Sanitation) is a training methodology developed in the context of Ethiopia, where WASH systems are faced with multiple problems. Coverage is low (even though increasing rapidly). Systems break down frequently; repair is often late or inadequate. Sustainable models of financing these systems are yet to be developed.
Most importantly, there are gaps in WASH professionals’ understanding of communities’ WASH problems/needs, and a lack of capacity needed to handle them. The training that they receive focuses too much on theory and too little on practical aspects.
GLoWS was developed in response to this situation. It is a problem-based learning approach that focuses on helping the trainees assess/frame WASH problems appropriately, and define practical actions to solve them. A key feature is that the training is provided to water professionals right at their workplace. This is important as government water bureaus in Ethiopia are under immense work pressure and cannot afford to let their staff go away for training for long periods of time. Trainers from local vocational training centres provide support and supervision from time-to-time. There is also a lot of focus on peer-to-peer learning and group work.
GLoWS was developed by MetaMeta, with support from Partners for Water, RiPPLE, IRC, SNV, WASTE, RAIN Foundation and UNICEF.
More info: GLOWS@metameta.nl
Produced by: TheWaterChannel
Year: 2013
Language: English
Region: Ethiopia
