Empowering Tanzania Through Evaluation: A Success Story of Capacity Building with USAID T-MELA

As part of its efforts to strengthen local capacity in monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) in Tanzania, IBI recently convened an interactive workshop at the Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE) titled "Sharpening Evaluation Skills: Outcome Harvesting and Most Significant Change Approaches.” The workshop was facilitated by IBI’s experts working on the USAID Tanzania Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Activity.  

Group photo: DUCE students, faculties, and USAID and T-MELA members

The primary objective of this workshop was to deepen participants' understanding of Outcome Harvesting (OH) and Most Significant Change (MSC) approaches, both of which are vital competencies to have in conducting assessments of development initiatives and policies, especially in complex environments. Additionally, the workshop aimed to enhance participants' interviewing and data analysis skills, critical for the successful implementation of OH and MSC. 

Attended by 39 participants from DUCE and USAID Tanzania, the workshop featured lectures, group discussions, and Q&A sessions. Participants gained practical insights into interviewing techniques, data analysis methodologies, and the application of OH and MSC principles in real-world scenarios.  

IBI’s ongoing successful implementation of the T-MELA Activity underscores our commitment to strengthening the capabilities of local research institutions, a cornerstone of the Activity. At the heart of our approach lies a dedication to achieving sustainable results—lasting improvements for people, businesses, and governments. This principle aligns seamlessly with one of T-MELA's overarching goal of capacity building, crucial for fostering sustainable development in Tanzania and nurturing the next generation of leaders.