PROBLEMS AND PROBLEM-SOLVING APPROACHES

We, as stakeholders, including governmental organizations (GOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), often approach social problems with a business-as-usual mindset. This entails jumping into the field with a well-crafted action plan and allocated resources to address specific issues in targeted regions. A comprehensive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) process ensures that all planned metrics are achieved. The outcome is typically celebrated, with satisfied donors, beneficiaries, and organizations.

However, despite these efforts, social problems often persist, either with reduced or increased intensity. Allow me to illustrate this with an education project. Approximately a decade ago, an international NGO designed an innovative program to tackle the issue of out-of-school children in Ethiopia. According to the latest report, around 200 thousand children have gained access to education through this alternative and accelerated learning program in Ethiopia. Unfortunately, however, the number of out-of-school children has actually increased. When we consider the percentage of these 200,000 children in relation to the current 4 million out-of-school population, it becomes evident that such programs alone are unlikely to bring down the problem to single-digit percentages.

At this point, we might question whether stakeholders even consider such a problem to be their responsibility. Some argue that it is solely the government's duty, while others claim that achieving this goal is highly challenging. Various excuses are offered by different individuals, highlighting the need for a fresh perspective.

Assuming we accept this challenge, what should be our approach?

Certainly not the business-as-usual (BAU) method of tackling social problems. Instead, we must transition from BAU to UAB—urgency above business-as-usual. We need to shift from a "firefighting" mode to a mode that focuses on lasting solutions. The initial step involves introspection and self-reflective exercises. By embarking on a journey of self-transformation, we can lead system transformation and foster social innovation. These foundational initiatives will pave the way for numerous innovative projects that effectively address the profound challenges our society faces.

It is disheartening to witness not only the above-mentioned education program but also numerous other initiatives that, despite having ample resources, are unwilling to change their approaches. Nonetheless, it is never too late. If any of you, the readers, are willing to raise questions and seek lasting solutions, please do not hesitate to contact us at sosjeya@yahoo.com for further details.

In conclusion, our current problem-solving approaches often fall short in addressing social issues effectively. Despite achieving specific goals in isolated cases, the underlying problems persist and even worsen in some instances. To create meaningful change, we must break free from the confines of business as usual and embrace an urgent and transformative approach. By sparking self-reflection, fostering system transformation, and promoting social innovation, we can develop lasting solutions that genuinely impact society. Let us seize this opportunity to challenge the status quo and work together towards a future where social problems are truly resolved.