Católica MOVE in Sao Tome and Principe : insightful strategic challenges

: exploratory research concerning the organization’s presence and performance in Sao Tome, its mission and activities alignment, and the strategic perspective from the programme’s evolution

Abstract

The present dissertation research invites thinking about foreign aid effectiveness, entrepreneurship and social sector’s action in developing countries, all addressing sustainable development. It focuses on the nongovernmental organizations’ potential as intermediary agents for change, as well as on the increasing pressure towards their partial or total autonomy while becoming more financially viable and achieving higher social impact. The literature review addresses foreign aid issues, entrepreneurship as a worthwhile solution to build on developing countries’ sustainability, the evolution of the role of NGOs in the social sector and the promising future of social entrepreneurship. The Católica MOVE in Sao Tome and Principe case study aims to allow an insightful perspective of an NGO in a small African developing country over almost three years and six fellow teams, by presenting its different dynamics and activities. The teaching notes suggest approaching the case study by analyzing and discussing its programme’s strategic evolution in light of the country’s context. Brainstorming around to target a higher financial viability and social impact are suggested. The case study analysis suggests the organization’s increasing visibility and credibility have been emphasizing its positioning in the field through mission and activities’ alignment and coherency.

Date of Award	10 Feb 2014
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Susana Frazão Ferreira Fernandes Pinheiro (Supervisor)