Our theory of change
How change happens
Our theory of change rests on an evidence-based conviction: educating a girl and supporting a woman transforms a household, then a community, then a nation. The causal chain below links needs to intended effects, and names the assumptions that condition it.
Our conviction
From the household to the nation
Educating a girl and supporting a woman changes more than one life. Change radiates outward: it reaches the household, then the community, then the nation. Each circle feeds the next — this is the logic underpinning both our programmes.
This theory of change is not a promise: it is the basis on which we measure our results and progress.
From intervention to impact
How our interventions produce outcomes, then lasting impact. Click any item to trace its path, or filter by programme.
Interventions
Intermediate outcomes
Long-term outcomes
Impacts
Two branches, one path
Two programmes feed this theory of change
Underlying assumptions
What we hold to be true — and verify
- A
French, the language of instruction, is the priority lever for academic success.
- B
The savings mechanism (VSLA), more than material endowment, is the key to sustainability.
- C
Participatory choice of activities, with the women concerned, conditions ownership.
Evidence accountability
Measure, don't assert
Each level of the chain has its indicators. We do not say “we think it works”: we document what works, with evidence, and we name what remains uncertain.
Indicators defined at every level (outputs, outcomes, impact).
A first independent external evaluation of ELLES & NOUS at the end of the second year (end of 2026).
Disaggregated, published impact data, consistent with our transparency commitment.