Terms of Reference MEAL Expert

Proposed function

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Expert

Aim of this assignment

The MEL expert is staff member of the MA. He / she shall be assigned to support the MEL team in:

• developing and implementing a system to collect and analyse qualitative data, primarily from the IP narrative reports and the MA field monitoring reports
• improving ‘learning’ and knowledge management

Context of ESAP3 M&E

Social accountability (SA) is a relatively recent concept, and limited evidence on SA impact is available. For the Ethiopia SA Program (ESAP) and others who could learn from its experiences, it is important to apply rigorous and standardized approaches to effectively monitor and evaluate the impact of the program.

While MEL has set up a solid and robust system to collect and analyse quantitative data, more efforts are being done to make advantage of the qualitative data to better understand mechanism and processes leading to success or failure of SA in the ESAP woredas (Theory of change)).

Activities and Verifiable deliverables

Field monitoring

• Improve/revise the monitoring protocol
• define (fine tune) criteria for selecting woredas to be visited
• prepare a field visit schedule and coordinate the field visits
• participate in field monitoring visits
• follow up on timely delivery of inputs and outputs (visit preparation, reporting, info sharing, …)
• add summary data in Monday.com

Data analysis

Develop a methodology / system for interpreting the qualitative data collected from the IP narrative reports and the field monitoring reports, preferably in QDA Miner.

This methodology developed by the expert should, amongst others

• outline trends (e.g. systematic differences between regions, sectors, SACs, etc.)
• help to identify good practices, lessons learned
• identify common challenges, as well as possible suggestions for how to approach these challenges

Capacity building

• organize frequent meetings (mini workshop) within the MA to share field monitoring experiences
• train / coach MA staff in QDA (if required)
• train / coach the IPs in writing analytical reports
• develop online (Moodle) training material / manual on QDA

Other tasks to support the MEL team, as required

• support with quantitative data (data collection, analysis, and reporting)
• support with CRC
• train / coach IPs in all required ESAP MEL activities

Written reporting requirements

• Write field monitoring reports
• contribution to the narrative of the technical progress reports
• other, as required

Period of the assignment

Until 31 December 2022, with possible extension based on performance & availability of funds.

Job Requirements

Minimum qualifications

• A master’s degree in education or Development Studies (or other domain relevant to this position);
• Minimum of 3 years of knowledge and working experience in M&E and/or research (preferably related to SA);
• Experience with qualitative data management
• A sound understanding of government systems and public services in Ethiopia and experience with governance reform work.
• Fluency in English, knowledge of Amharic is an asset.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified applicant can send their CV to : vng@ethiojobs.net