Diploma in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning (MEAL)
Africa Training Institute is pleased to announce the Diploma in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning (MEAL). This is both an online and Distance Learning Course, which starts on the 1st of every month.
Overall Course Overview
Created by NGOs for NGOs, MEAL improves skills across the humanitarian and development sector. This 6-month Diploma equips participants with comprehensive practical knowledge and skills in NGO monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning. Building on core MEAL DPro principles, the programme develops the ability to design robust logic models, plan effective MEAL systems, collect and analyse high-quality data, and use findings for adaptive management, stakeholder communication, and organisational learning in African and global development contexts.
What You’ll Learn?
- Design logic models (Theory of Change, Results Frameworks, and Logical Frameworks/logframes) that form the foundation of MEAL systems.
- Plan for MEAL using practical tools including Performance Management Plans, Indicator Performance Tracking Tables, Summary Evaluation Tables, Communication Plans, and Learning Plans.
- Collect MEAL data using well-designed qualitative and quantitative tools, appropriate sampling methods, and recommended data management practices.
- Analyse MEAL data with quantitative (descriptive and inferential) statistics and qualitative methods; interpret and visualise findings.
- Use MEAL data to inform project decisions, communicate with stakeholders, practise adaptive management, and promote organisational learning.
Who should enroll
- Project team members responsible for programme implementation (project managers, programme managers, and other project associates).
- Entry-level MEAL specialists and more experienced MEAL staff seeking a common language and stronger systems for MEAL among colleagues and partners.
- Development and humanitarian professionals working with NGOs, UN agencies, government, and donor-funded projects who need practical MEAL competencies.
- There are no formal prerequisites; basic familiarity with project work is helpful but not required.
Key Course Modules / Learning Plan
– Overview of MEAL in projects
– Components of MEAL and the MEAL cycle
– Benefits of a strong MEAL system
– Relationship between MEAL and project management
– Ethical standards and cross-cutting principles of MEAL
– Theory of Change
– Results Frameworks
– Logical Frameworks (logframes)
– Vertical and horizontal logic of the logframe
– SMART indicators
– Measurement methods
– Assumptions in project logic models
– Performance Monitoring Plans
– Data flow maps
– Indicator Performance Tracking Tables
– Evaluation Summary Tables
– Evaluation Terms of Reference
– Communication plans
– Learning plans
– Accountability mechanisms and feedback systems
– Data collection tools (qualitative and quantitative)
– Basic principles of sampling
– Data management, databases, and data entry
– Data quality assurance
– Quantitative data analysis (descriptive and inferential statistics)
– Qualitative data analysis
– Data interpretation
– Adaptive management
– Data visualisation
– MEAL reporting and communication
– Learning from MEAL data and organisational improvement
(Additional applied topics, case studies from African development/humanitarian contexts, and practical exercises are integrated throughout the modules.)
Cost of the Course:
USD 600
Training Format
- All materials are made available through the Africa Training Institute Online Learning Platform.
- Interactive online modules: video lectures, readings, practical exercises, templates, and quizzes.
- Self-paced learning with optional live online sessions and peer discussion forums.
- Africa-focused real-world case studies and hands-on assignments applicable to participants’ current work.
- Students should commit approximately 5–6 hours per week (or 6–8 hours in some cohorts).
Participants
Development Professionals, humanitarian practitioners, MEAL staff, project/programme managers, and related roles.
Regions
Africa and Global.
Organizer
Africa Training Institute.
Language
English
Format
Web-based and Distance Learning Facilitated (Online via ATI Learning Platform). Optional in-person elements may be available in Nairobi for some cohorts.
Certification
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Diploma in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning (MEAL) from Africa Training Institute, together with a course transcript.
Application / Contact
Africa Training Institute Studies (ATI)
United Nations Avenue, Nairobi
E-mail: info@africatraininginstitute.org
Website: www.africatraininginstitute.org