Community Centered-Participatory Action Research (PAR)
At PARPACA, we understand that lasting transformation begins when communities are not just heard, but actively involved in shaping their own futures. Our Community-Centered Participatory Action Research (PAR) service is designed to support grassroots voices in generating evidence, driving local action, and influencing policy.
This service is tailored for civil society organizations, local governments, development partners, and grassroots movements who value authentic engagement, inclusive research methods, and sustainable results.
We conduct community-based research involving local communities and marginalized groups to identify issues that affect them. We use a collaborative approach that engages the active involvement of community members and marginalised groups in identifying problems, collecting data, analysing results, ensuring their voices and experiences are integral to the research process to implement or shape solutions together to drive social change.
What Is Participatory Action Research (PAR)?
Participatory Action Research (PAR) is an inclusive, collaborative method of inquiry that engages those most affected by an issue in every step of the research process — from defining the problem to collecting data and designing solutions.
Unlike traditional research, PAR shifts the dynamic from “researching about communities” to “researching with communities.” It is about creating a space where local knowledge, lived experiences, and academic inquiry come together to drive real change.
Why Choose Community-Centered PAR?
✅ Community-Led: Communities help set the agenda, decide on research tools, and validate findings.
✅ Evidence-Based Solutions: Projects generate locally grounded data that informs decision-making at all levels.
✅ Empowerment Through Knowledge: Participants develop research, analysis, and advocacy skills.
✅ Policy Influence: Findings directly support advocacy strategies, funding proposals, and local policy reforms.
✅ Sustainability: When people are involved in the process, they are more likely to sustain the outcomes.
Our Process: How It Works
1. Engagement and Dialogue
We begin by engaging with community leaders, grassroots organizations, and other stakeholders to identify key concerns and set shared research goals.
2. Co-Design of Research Tools
Community members and PARPACA researchers co-develop tools such as surveys, focus group guides, and participatory mapping techniques.
3. Data Collection by the Community
We train local facilitators to lead the research process, ensuring data is gathered in a respectful, culturally sensitive, and ethical manner.
4. Joint Analysis and Reflection
Research results are interpreted collaboratively with communities to ensure accuracy, ownership, and deep insights.
5. Action Planning
The research culminates in the development of community-driven action plans or policy recommendations.
6. Advocacy and Dissemination
Findings are shared with decision-makers, media, and other communities to amplify voices and influence policy change.
What Makes PARPACA Different?
Pan-African Expertise
Our team includes seasoned African researchers, facilitators, and advocates with deep cultural and political understanding.
Inclusive Approach
We prioritize participation from marginalized groups, including women, youth, persons with disabilities, and indigenous communities.
Integrity and Transparency
We follow the highest ethical standards and ensure findings are shared with all stakeholders — especially the communities involved.
Sustainable Partnerships
Our work doesn’t end at publication. We build long-term relationships with communities to ensure sustained impact.
Join the Movement
Policy change doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It takes bold ideas, credible evidence, and united voices. At PARPACA, we invite you to collaborate with us — whether you’re a policymaker, researcher, donor, or grassroots advocate.
Email: advocacy@parpaca.org
Phone: +256 [your number]
Website: www.parpacaAfrica.org