Strategic Planning for Child Rights and Protection Programming 

Strategic planning in the context of child-rights and protection programming involves a systematic process to establish priorities, allocate resources, and strengthen operations to achieve specific goals related to the welfare and protection of children. Here are the key components:

Situation Analysis

1. Needs Assessment: Identify the specific needs and issues affecting children in the target area.
2. Stakeholder Analysis: Determine the key stakeholders, including children, families, communities, governments, NGOs, and international organizations.
3. Resource Mapping: Assess available resources and gaps in the current child protection system.
4. Data Collection and Analysis: Use quantitative and qualitative data to understand the scope, scale, and nature of child protection issues.

Goal Setting

1. Vision and Mission: Define a clear vision and mission for child protection programming.
2. Strategic Objectives: Establish long-term goals aligned with international standards like the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
3. SMART Goals: Develop Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound objectives.

Strategy Formulation

1. Program Design: Create programs and interventions tailored to address the identified needs and objectives.
2. Policy Advocacy: Develop strategies for influencing policies and legislation to enhance child protection.
3. Capacity Building: Plan for training and development of stakeholders involved in child protection.
4. Partnership Development: Formulate strategies to collaborate with other organizations and agencies.

Implementation Planning

• Action Plans: Develop detailed action plans for each strategic objective, including timelines and responsibilities.
• Resource Allocation: Determine the budget and allocate resources effectively to different programs and activities.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Implementation Planning

1. Action Plans: Develop detailed action plans for each strategic objective, including timelines and responsibilities.
2. Resource Allocation: Determine the budget and allocate resources effectively to different programs and activities.
3. Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Monitoring and Evaluation

1. Indicators and Metrics: Establish clear indicators to measure progress and impact.
2. Data Collection Systems: Set up systems for regular data collection and analysis.
3. Regular Reviews: Conduct periodic reviews to assess progress, identify challenges, and make necessary adjustments.
4. Impact Assessment: Evaluate the overall impact of the programs on child rights and protection.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

1. Participation and Inclusion: Ensure active participation of children and communities in the planning process.
2. Awareness and Advocacy Campaigns: Develop communication strategies to raise awareness about child rights and protection issues.
3. Feedback Mechanisms: Create channels for stakeholders to provide feedback and suggestions.

Sustainability Planning

1. Long-term Funding: Develop strategies to secure sustainable funding for child protection programs.
2. Capacity Strengthening: Ensure that local institutions and communities are empowered to continue the work independently.
3. Policy Integration: Advocate for the integration of child protection priorities into national policies and frameworks.

Documentation and Reporting

1. Transparency: Maintain clear and transparent records of all activities, decisions, and outcomes.
2. Reporting: Prepare regular reports for stakeholders, including donors, partners, and the community.

By following these components, organizations can develop a robust strategic plan that effectively addresses child-rights and protection issues, ensuring a comprehensive and sustainable approach to safeguarding the welfare of children.

Mohammed Zafor Ullah Nizam

Founder

Mohammed Zafor Ullah Nizam is a seasoned professional with over 22 years of experience in the development sector, both internationally and nationally. He holds two postgraduate degrees from Dhaka University: A Master in Population Sciences (MPS) and a Master in Public Affairs (MPA) with a specialization in Governance and Public Policy. Additionally, he earned a B.Sc. (Honors) in Forestry from Chittagong University. Throughout his extensive career, Mr. Zafor has held pivotal roles in several esteemed organizations. He has served as a Senior Protection Manager at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Protection Team Leader at Oxfam, and both Protection Capacity Building Manager and Activity Manager at Solidarités International. His experience extends to Save the Children, where he was a Deputy Program Manager, and Chemonics, as a Brand and Service Promotion Specialist. Furthermore, he has contributed his expertise as a Project Assistant at UNFPA Bangladesh, a Senior Training Officer at Save the Children Australia, a National UN Volunteer at UNODC, and a Program Manager at the Bangladesh Women Health Coalition. Mr. Zafor has an impressive track record in training and capacity building. He received specialized training in Project Planning, Development, and Management (PPDM) from the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) in the Philippines.