Challenge
Although the social change promoted by a project is often perceptible, its impact tends to remain in the realm of subjectivity, without clear quantitative measurement. Making these impacts tangible is essential to concretely demonstrate the effectiveness and reach of the investments made.
With the aim of assessing the effectiveness of resources allocated to two of its education initiatives, the Ayrton Senna Institute relied on the support of IDIS to carry out a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) – one of several methodologies available for evaluating and measuring impact.
The Se Liga and Acelera Brasil programs, aimed at students with age–grade gaps, have been operating for over 20 years in partnership with public school systems. These initiatives were designed to promote quality literacy, improve learning, reduce school delays, and strengthen educational management in the country.
Solution and results
The Cost-Benefit Analysis showed that the Se Liga and Acelera Brasil programs generated significant social impact: for every BRL 1 invested, society obtained a return of BRL 18.56 in benefits. The total social value generated by the initiatives was estimated at BRL 79.8 million. The methodology considered not only direct educational gains, but also savings for the public system.
“Society and the public sector need to recognize that well-designed educational policies have a high social and economic return. This study helps raise the bar for Brazilian public policies and proves that investing in education based on evidence is one of the most efficient ways to reduce inequalities and transform the future of thousands of children and young people.”
— Denise Carvalho, Evaluation and Monitoring Manager at IDIS
In addition to monetary benefits, the analysis highlighted qualitative and non-monetized impacts, such as strengthening self-management, restoring self-esteem through school inclusion, and fostering social justice. Future expected benefits for students include a higher likelihood of completing elementary school, lower dropout rates, strengthened self-esteem and self-confidence, progression to high school, and qualified entry into the job market.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
About the organization
Born from the dream of the three-time Formula 1 world champion, the Ayrton Senna Institute is an innovation center dedicated to accelerating the quality of public education in Brazil. It does so through research and innovation, implementation of educational programs, and contributions to public policies. The Institute partners with public school systems across Brazil to promote literacy, improve learning, foster socio-emotional skills, and strengthen educational management. Its work includes diagnostics, training for teachers and school managers, goal-setting, indicator monitoring, and providing educational tools and materials for classroom use.
Throughout its history, the Institute has served more than 39 million children and young people in around 3,000 municipalities. In the face of today’s social and environmental challenges, it believes that transforming lives through education is essential to building a fairer country and a more sustainable future for all.
