Training Course on Monitoring & Evaluation in the NGO Sector

Introduction

In this course NGO staff members, human rights activists and development workers will be introduced to the fundamentals of planning and carrying out programme-based monitoring and evaluation. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) are essential tools for ensuring accountability, learning, and performance in the NGO sector. They help organizations measure the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of projects and programs, enabling evidence-based decision-making and reporting to donors and stakeholders.

The course will blend planning and management principles with skill-development related to study design and data collection and analysis. This practical training course is tailored for NGOs and development practitioners to strengthen their skills in designing and implementing robust M&E systems. Participants will learn how to develop logical frameworks, design indicators, collect and analyze data, and report on outcomes using participatory and results-based approaches.

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive Certificate of Participation.

Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the core principles and purpose of M&E in the NGO sector.
  • Design project M&E frameworks using logical frameworks and theories of change.
  • Develop performance indicators for outputs, outcomes, and impacts.
  • Design and implement data collection tools and systems.
  • Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to support project improvement.
  • Prepare M&E reports for internal learning and donor compliance.
  • Apply participatory methods in M&E for community engagement.
  • Develop and use M&E plans, including budgeting and scheduling.
  • Use digital tools and platforms to streamline M&E processes.
  • Improve organizational learning through adaptive M&E practices.

Duration

This certificate course will take 5 days.

Who should Attend

The course is intended for:

  • NGO program and project managers
  • M&E officers and assistants
  • Field coordinators and team leaders
  • Donor program staff and grant managers
  • Development consultants and researchers
  • Government or private sector partners collaborating with NGOs
  • Students and professionals entering the development field

Course outline

Module 1: Introduction to Monitoring & Evaluation

  • Importance of M&E in the NGO sector
  • Key concepts: Monitoring vs. Evaluation
  • The project cycle and where M&E fits in
  • Types of evaluation: formative, summative, impact
  • Case study: Why M&E systems fail or succeed in NGOs

Module 2: M&E Frameworks and Indicator Development

  • Theory of Change and Logical Framework Approach (LFA)
  • Results chains: inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, impact
  • Developing SMART indicators (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
  • Baselines and targets: setting realistic performance measures
  • Gender-sensitive and inclusive indicators
  • Group exercise: Create a logical framework and indicator matrix

Module 3: Data Collection and Management

  • Designing M&E tools: surveys, checklists, focus group guides
  • Quantitative vs. qualitative data methods
  • Sampling techniques for NGO contexts
  • Data quality assurance: accuracy, reliability, timeliness
  • Mobile data collection tools: KoboToolbox, ODK, SurveyCTO
  • Data storage, cleaning, and ethics in data handling

Exercise: Design and pilot a short M&E tool

Module 4: Data Analysis, Reporting, and Learning

  • Data analysis techniques and interpretation
  • Visualization of M&E data (charts, dashboards, scorecards)
  • Writing user-friendly reports for internal and external audiences
  • Donor reporting requirements and templates
  • From M&E to learning: adaptive management and course correction
  • Participatory M&E approaches: involving communities in the process
  • Case study review: Using M&E findings for advocacy and impact

Module 5: M&E Planning and Integration into NGO Work

  • Developing an M&E Plan: structure, roles, timeline, and budget
  • Linking M&E to project management and organizational strategy
  • Capacity building for M&E in NGOs: internal systems and team training
  • Integrating accountability and feedback mechanisms
  • Final group project: Design an M&E plan for a sample NGO project
  • Participant presentations and peer review

General Notes

  • The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.
  • The participants should be reasonably proficient in English as all facilitation and course materials will be offered in English.
  • Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a certificate.
  • The training will be held at Kincaid Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.
  • All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
  • Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training coordinator at Email: training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org or Tel: +254 724592901
  • This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our Kincaid Training Centre or at a convenient location.

For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254 724592901 or send mail to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org

Payments are due upon registration. Payment should be sent to our Bank account before commencement of training and proof of payment sent to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org 

No sessions available for this course.