The Challenge Initiative

TCI University (TCI-U) is The Challenge Initiative’s key mechanism for scaling up urban reproductive health solutions. Its toolkits deliver highly synthesized and practical how-to guidance and resources for implementing proven family planning approaches. Coaching and communities of practice provide opportunities for more hands-on technical support and peer-to-peer learning and exchange. These components are designed to meet the learning needs of distinct audiences at different stages of the Initiative’s model – from expression of interest to program design to implementation. This approach to learning is both comprehensive and simple. It provides standardized information and tools, which can be customized and tailored to meet city program needs. TCI-U toolkits include a global one organized into three program areas: Services and Supply, Demand Generation and Advocacy. It also includes TCI Essentials for learning about the Initiative's "business unusual" model for scaling up and sustaining family planning programs. Four regional or “hub” toolkits (Francophone West Africa, Nigeria, East Africa and India) are also available for more contextualized information and tools. TCI-U recently added a toolkit focused on Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health (AYSRH). It includes evidence-based interventions for increasing young people’s access to sexual and reproductive health services and information in urban environments.