The problem is not that we lack good intentions

In AYSRHR, youth and adult collaboration is widely recognised as essential. But bringing people into the same room does not automatically produce equity, influence, or better outcomes. What usually happens is messier. It’s usually different expectations, different levels of confidence to challenge decisions, and very different consequences when things go wrong. “Partnership” becomes a word we repeat, while the actual practice simply defaults to the usual hierarchy.

So, why exactly do we need a theory of change for youth-adult partnerships in SRH?

Let’s explore the reasons in detail.

1. Clarifying Goals and Pathways to Change

A theory of change provides a structured approach for identifying desired outcomes and the steps needed to achieve them. In youth-adult partnerships, especially in sensitive areas like SRH, goals can be complex and multifaceted—ranging from improved health services to policy changes and empowerment. A theory of change helps everyone involved to understand what success looks like, what actions are required, and how each role contributes to the overall progress.

2. Building Mutual Understanding and Trust

Youth and adults often have different perspectives, experiences, and expectations when working together. A theory of change creates a shared language and understanding, making it easier for both groups to collaborate effectively. It helps define how decisions will be made, how conflicts will be resolved, and how each participant’s voice will be valued, fostering trust and respect within the partnership.

3. Ensuring Meaningful Youth Participation

In SRH initiatives, youth are often the intended beneficiaries, but their involvement can sometimes be tokenistic. A theory of change explicitly outlines how youth will be engaged—not just as recipients, but as active contributors and leaders. This ensures that their needs, ideas, and experiences shape the program, leading to interventions that are more relevant and impactful for young people.

4. Addressing Power Dynamics

Sexual and reproductive health is a field where power imbalances between adults and youth can significantly influence outcomes. Adults may unintentionally dominate discussions or decision-making, limiting genuine youth participation. A theory of change helps recognize and address these dynamics by establishing equitable structures for collaboration and ensuring accountability, making the partnership more democratic and effective.

5. Improving Program Design and Evaluation

With a theory of change, youth-adult partnerships can better design programs that respond to real needs and monitor progress toward goals. It provides clear indicators for success and tools for evaluation, allowing teams to adapt and improve their approaches over time. This evidence-based process leads to more impactful SRH interventions and helps secure support from stakeholders and funders.

6. Enhancing Sustainability and Scale

Programs in SRH often struggle with sustainability and scalability. A theory of change ensures that youth-adult partnerships build capacity, transfer knowledge, and create systems that last beyond individual participants. By documenting how change happens and why certain strategies work, it becomes easier to replicate and expand successful models to new communities or contexts.

In summary…

A theory of change is not a diagram you create to satisfy a process. It’s a commitment to doing youth partnership properly: with clarity about goals, honesty about power, and a shared understanding of what meaningful collaboration requires. If we want youth partnership to be real, it has to be designed like it matters!