acronyms

One of the most important elements of development work is acronym building. Without the cutesy communicative powers that only a clever, thematic, and catchy acronym can deliver, even the most well designed programs are doomed. No NGO can live without them. It is like it is in their blood, or something.

In fact, next time you need a development program, I would recommend coming up with the acronym first. Think about what you want to convey, preferably something that implies progress. AHEAD (Accelerating Health, Education, and Adolescent Development) is a great example. PEARL (Peace Education And Rebuilding Livelihoods) does not make much sense, but sure makes you feel good inside. Invoke children if at all possible, even if they are not directly involved, as in the case of TOTs (Training for Trainers).

One does not need to feel hemmed in by the secular world, as a choice like PRAISE (Peace Rehabilitation And Initiatives through Services and Student Empowerment) not only implies a better place, but maybe even with a shade of the higher power. It also brings up the point that a successful acronym need not actually really correspond to the long form. Take ENABLE (Enabling Aceh to Combat Exploitation through Education) as a shining example of the liberties one is able to take, provided some other criteria (in this case progess and jus plain feelin' good) are met.

I, of course, am terrible at the acronym game. I am far too attached to the idea of writing the program first, often with disastrous results. I guess donors just are less than interested in investing in something called SSKINY (Services Supporting KIds and Youth). I know, I was surprised too.