A critical evaluation of large-scale development projects and programmes in South Africa 1980-1994

Abstract

From the programmes and projects that have been reviewed, it became apparent that, in the past the concept of developmental programmes and projects had been hijacked and subsequently misused by those who were in control. The employment creation potential of civil engineering service provision was not thoroughly exploited. Likewise the necessary research was not conducted hence subsequent prefeasibility studies were not covered, if not completely ignored. The crucial role that training plays was neither well designed nor well implemented. The training needs were uncovered during the implementation of projects and crisis management approach was adopted. The element of human development was not entrenched into these programmes and projects. The conclusion that has been drawn from the study is that attention should be paid to the following: (1) There should be a long-term political and financial commitment from the government; (2).A properly planned long-term training programme should be put in place; and (3) There should be community participation in project preparation, planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation