PROGRAMMATIC & OPERATIONAL POLICY

1. INTRODUCTION

My Gynae Foundation (MGF) is committed to delivering high-impact programs that improve women’s health, particularly in areas of gynaecological health, menstrual health management, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and access to quality care. This Programmatic and Operational Policy provides a structured framework for program planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and sustainability in alignment with globally recognized standards such as those of the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO).

2. GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Our programmatic approach is anchored on the following principles:  

  1. Evidence-Based Programming: All interventions are guided by current research, data, and best practices in women’s health.
  2. Gender Sensitivity and Inclusivity: Programs are designed to be inclusive, addressing the unique needs of women and adolescent girls while engaging men as allies.
  3. Rights-Based Approach: Ensuring that sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) are upheld in all our initiatives.
  4. Community-Driven Solutions: Actively involving local communities in program design, implementation, and feedback.
  5. Sustainability and Scalability: Implementing models that are sustainable and adaptable for expansion.
  6. Transparency and Accountability: Upholding integrity in all program activities, ensuring responsible use of resources, and open communication with stakeholders.

3. PROGRAM PLANNING & IMPLEMENTATION

3.1 Needs Assessment and Research  

  • Conduct periodic needs assessments using qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
  • Utilize data from national and international sources to inform program design.
  • Engage key stakeholders, including health professionals, policymakers, and community leaders.

3.2 Program Design  

  • Develop clear Theories of Change (ToC) and Logical Frameworks (LogFrames) to outline program objectives, inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact.
  • Ensure alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
  • Integrate a Do No Harm approach to safeguard participants from unintended negative consequences.

3.3 Implementation Framework  

  • Each program shall have a detailed work plan, budget, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Implementation teams must include trained program officers, community health workers, and local partners.
  • Leverage technology, including mobile health (mHealth) solutions, telemedicine, and data analytics for efficiency.
  • Establish referral pathways with healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care for program beneficiaries.

4. MONITORING, EVALUATION, AND LEARNING (MEL)

4.1 Monitoring and Reporting  
All employees must adhere to the highest ethical standards, including:

  • A standardized Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework shall be used to track program progress.
  • Conduct baseline, midline, and endline evaluations to assess impact.
  • Utilize both qualitative (case studies, focus groups) and quantitative (surveys, health indicators) data collection methods.
  • Implement real-time data collection systems for efficient tracking and adaptive programming.

4.2 Evaluation and Learning

  • External evaluations shall be conducted for major programs to ensure objectivity and credibility.
  • Lessons learned shall be documented and integrated into future programming.
  • Host periodic Learning and Reflection Forums to assess successes, challenges, and best practices.

5. PARTNERSHIP AND COLLABORATION

  • Establish strategic partnerships with international organizations, government agencies, private sector actors, and grassroots organizations to enhance program effectiveness.
  • Formalize partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Partnership Agreements outlining roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
  • Engage men and boys in advocacy and outreach efforts to promote women’s health and rights.

6. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND SAFEGUARDING

  • Ethical Approval: All research-based interventions must obtain ethical clearance from relevant health research bodies.
  • Informed Consent: Participants must provide voluntary informed consent before participating in any program activity.
  • Confidentiality: Personal health data shall be handled in compliance with the Global Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and local data privacy laws.
  • Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection: Implement a zero-tolerance policy for exploitation, abuse, and harassment in line with INGO safeguarding standards.

7. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION

  • Adhere to strict financial accountability mechanisms to ensure donor funds and grants are utilized transparently.
  • Regular financial audits shall be conducted to maintain credibility.
  • Seek diversified funding sources, including grants, corporate sponsorships, and individual donations, to ensure financial sustainability.

8. RISK MANAGEMENT AND CRISIS RESPONSE

  • A Risk Management Framework shall be in place to anticipate and mitigate risks, including health emergencies, political instability, and operational disruptions.
  • Develop a Crisis Response Plan to address unforeseen challenges, including pandemics and natural disasters.
  • Establish a contingency fund to sustain critical operations in times of crisis.

9. PROGRAM EXIT AND SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY

  • Programs shall be designed with exit strategies to ensure sustainability beyond direct implementation.
  • Strengthen local capacity by training community-based health workers and partners to continue interventions.
  • Advocate for policy adoption and government buy-in to institutionalize proven health solutions.

10. POLICY REVIEW AND UPDATES

  • This policy shall be reviewed every three years or as needed to reflect evolving best practices and organizational growth.
  • Changes to this policy must be approved by the Board of Trustees.

Approved by:
Chairperson, Board of Trustees
My Gynae Foundation