An analysis on the effectiveness of corporate social responsibilty as a community development alternative: A case study of Econet`s Capernaum Trust Educational Scholarship Program in Matabeleland North Province.

Abstract

This study focused on analyzing the effectiveness of corporate social responsibility as a community development alternative using a case study o f Econet’s Capernaum Trust social responsibility program. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative approaches in the research design. The research was aimed at understanding from the program clients the challenges that affect orphans and vulnerable children resulting in their low academic performance. Questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data. Findings revealed that there are multiple challenges that have contributed to the academic performance o f the beneficiaries. The findings o f the study also revealed that the corporate social responsibility programme by Econet was effective as it has gone a long way in complementing government efforts o f achieving the millennium development goals an instrumental development indicator. The data gathered was presented in the form oj pie charts, tables, graphs and figures. The study concluded that corporate social responsibility is effective as a community development alternative. Among the recommendations made was that Econet should engage in community awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities on the importance o f education for children and also advocate for the legislation of corporate social responsibility in Zimbabwe.