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