Embedding Evaluative Thinking In Government Ecosystem Through A Capacity Building Approach

Working within any MEL system of a multi-dimensional intervention, an important consideration is strengthening the MEL capacities of the system that need engaging in and sustaining evaluations. This vitally includes recognizing, reinforcing, and building on existing capacity as well as developing and strengthening the practice of valuing evidence, and evaluative thinking. Herein, the underlying assumption pertains to various stakeholders’ interests and values and exploring ways to integrate evaluation as part of the system and not as an intrusive, external aspect. This information and evidence help inform decision-making on the design, resourcing, and delivery of programs and activities as well as for accountability and reporting. This makes monitoring more effective and enhances the quality of decision-making.

To strengthen systems capacities and appreciation for evaluative thinking, embedded capacity development engagement across three levels of government machinery (decision-makers, data managers and operators, and ground-level staff) needs to be developed. Here we discuss how sustainability of this approach and outlook, can be built by engaging through a three-point interface: a) Planned workshop mode interactions across three identified cadres (decision-makers, data managers & operators, and ground-level data collectors and reporters) of the scheme delivery ecosystem, b) Mechanisms to foster government ownership, and c) Documentation and dissemination of learnings and customized knowledge products.

This approach, can essentially, follow a sequential learning-action cycle beginning with a need assessment-based delivery of interaction sessions, for the identified target groups. This planned approach would base itself on a concurrent, systematic, and continuous learning flow informing the ensuing actions. The importance and relevance of learning focus in this approach will need to be demonstrated through the initial learning which can help in embedding, and acceptance of the approach and necessitating any revisions of the overall capacity development approach. This, would also establish the effectiveness of nimble feedback loops for greater action. This encompassing approach can be envisioned as a solution for inculcating evaluative thinking and appreciation in service providers. At the same time, it can help embed evaluators into the fold of the implementation landscape providing them a way in, while planning for the exit strategy and sustainability of efforts.