Question:
Which of the following best describes the essence of the participatory approach in community development interventions?
AIt promotes a top-down approach to decision-making
BIt focuses on external experts guiding the community
CIt empowers the community to take ownership and lead the decision-making process
DIt reduces community involvement to avoid delays in development projects
Answer:
C. It empowers the community to take ownership and lead the decision-making process
Explanation:
The participatory approach emphasizes empowering the community, enabling them to take ownership and actively participate in decision-making. This bottom-up, community-driven method ensures that development interventions are more relevant, sustainable, and inclusive, particularly for vulnerable groups in rural areas.