Process evaluation of a disability-inclusive employment programme: examining the design and implementation of STAR+

Abstract

This study reports the initial findings of a process evaluation of a disability-inclusive employment programme, STAR+, being implemented across Bangladesh. The study interrogates the design of STAR+ and the structures and processes by which it was delivered. Findings reveal an important role of early involvement of disability-focused organizations in intervention planning. The study further discusses adaptations made during STAR+ delivery. First, in some project areas, extra resources were available to appoint additional staff to support disability inclusion. Second, implementers relied upon family members to support youth with disabilities during workplace and classroom training. Lastly, STAR+ implementers ensure the right employers are selected by the programme, in some cases engaging in additional ad-hoc selection processes to onboard more altruistic individuals. Results are discussed in terms of programmatic and policy implications.