The process of engaging rural communities must begin with community entrance. This engagement, though, can be exceedingly demanding. Various factors, like culture, acceptance, a language barrier, etc., may be to blame.
Connecting with community people and stakeholders is essential for successfully implementing programs. With it, social entrepreneurs can avoid having their projects fail.
Numerous methods have been employed, including focus groups, one-on-one interviews, community meetings, modeling, key informant interviews, etc. All of these techniques are highly interesting to us.
And another thing…
We can examine the usage of games as an exciting tool in addition to the different approaches utilized globally to engage with communities. Before you begin any other necessary exchanges, please engage the group in games and activities. This way, the community members are more comfortable listening and eager to participate in the discussion.
The following are some samples of the various games and activities available:
Fill-in-the-bottle challenge—Many rural residents participate in the fill-in-the-bottle challenge to see who can fill the bottle with foam from end to end.
Flip-the-bottle challenge—The contestants in the flip-the-bottle challenge compete to see how many times they can get the bottle to sit. It is possible to specify the number of times per participant.
Musical Statue—Follow the music and dance, but remain motionless like a statue when it stops. Those who move are excluded.
Egg on a spoon—-Get the egg from point to point on the scoop without sliding off.
Basketball—-Any basket can be used for this in basketball. The participants are instructed to throw the ball into the hoop successfully.
Dart— Pick a spot and concentrate on the point on the dartboard
It is possible to include additional games and activities from the community. For instance, traditional games like “tente” or “tinko-tinko” can be played in Nigeria. It not only evokes memories but also fosters a loving environment. These vintage games and enjoyable pastimes can be added to create a space where learning and fun coexist.
Prices will then be granted to the winners in each of these categories. These could be cash, toiletries, food, or other priceless stuff. The regulations should be established at the outset of the activity to stop any argument for people who didn’t win anything.
Next, what do you think?
Following the competition, the stage is set for appropriate discussions on whatever subject motivated the group to engage the community. This approach promotes training in remote areas and boosts participation. To avoid going out of order, speaking with community leaders before designating a day for a community meeting or community participation is essential. This activity is different and exciting because it may be carried out using various community participation approaches.
Community engagement can be enjoyable if a comprehensive approach is taken.
Try it out, and let us know how it goes.
