Project Implementation Strategies and Performance of Zero Dropout Projects by Save the Children, Rwanda

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the influence of project implementation strategies on performance of non-governmental organization projects in Rwanda, specifically focusing on the Zero Dropout Project in Bugesera District. The study aims to evaluate how various strategies, including community outreach and engagement, partnerships with local leaders, support services, resource allocation, and monitoring and evaluation, influence the performance of the project. Methodology: Employing a descriptive survey research design, the study will target a population of 321 individuals from whom a sample size of 178 respondents is calculated and was selected purposive sampling techniques, selected through stratified sampling to ensure representative data from various stakeholders involved in the Zero Dropout Project. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and documentary analysis, capturing the perceptions and experiences of key participants. The analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Findings: The regression analysis yielded a coefficient (B) of 0.586 and a p-value of 0.000 for the community outreach and engagement variable. The coefficient for partnership with local leaders was 0.217, with a p-value of 0.000. Support services had a coefficient of 0.458 and a p-value of 0.003. Resource allocation recorded a coefficient of 0.096 and a p-value of 0.022. Monitoring and evaluation produced the highest coefficient (1.678) and a p-value of 0.000. The study concludes that effective project management strategies play a critical role in the success of education-based interventions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Based on the findings, the study recommends enhancing partnerships with local leaders, expanding financial support mechanisms, improving monitoring and evaluation capacity, and scaling the project to other districts.