Case Study
Building SAMEA’s Future Through Tech-Enabled MERL Training
Client Overview
The South African Monitoring and Evaluation Association (SAMEA) is a leading professional body dedicated to advancing the practice of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) across South Africa. SAMEA serves as a vital hub for practitioners, both seasoned and emerging, by promoting evidence-based decision-making, strengthening evaluation capacity, and supporting inclusive learning environments across sectors.
Identified Gap
As digital transformation sweeps across development and governance sectors, SAMEA identified a critical need among its members: the integration of technology into MERL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning) systems. Traditional M&E practices were increasingly proving inadequate for real-time decision-making, data visualization, and impact reporting. SAMEA needed a practical, interactive training to equip its members with digital tools and modern MERL methodologies that respond to today’s data demands.
Training Summary
The Tech-Enabled MERL Training, delivered by Vantage Africa School of Leadership, was designed to address this need with a fully hands-on, high-impact approach. Over three intensive days, participants engaged with real-world case studies, collaborative group work, and direct tool demonstrations guided by expert facilitators, including Dr. Benson Kiarie and Mr. Mandlenkosi Khumalo.
Training Delivery Overview
| Day | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Day 1 |
- Foundations: Theory of Change, log frames, indicators - Traditional vs Tech-Enhanced MERL - Overview of digital tools (Kobo Toolbox, ODK, dashboards) |
| Day 2 |
- Mobile data collection (hands-on) - Visualization with Power BI & Google Data Studio - Ethics, data privacy, and introduction to AI in MERL |
| Day 3 |
- Building full MERL systems - Road mapping tech integration - Group presentations of custom MERL tech plans and certificate ceremony |
The Outcomes
The Tech-Enabled MERL training delivered to members of the South African Monitoring and Evaluation Association (SAMEA) marked a significant leap in how practitioners across the country engage with data, technology, and evaluation systems.
Participants gained not just exposure but practical mastery of tools like KoboToolbox, ODK, Power BI, and Google Data Studio. Over the 3-day interactive training, professionals designed custom MERL systems, developed digital data collection instruments, and explored how AI and ethical data practices are shaping the future of impact measurement.
More than a technical upgrade, the program shifted mindsets, empowering SAMEA’s network to transition from traditional, lagged reporting systems to agile, tech-enabled MERL frameworks that support real-time learning and evidence-based decision-making.
The collaborative energy created a space for innovation and peer learning that continues to resonate within the community. For many participants, it wasn’t just training; it was the spark that redefined their role as evaluators in a digital world.
Why Choose Us
- Contextual Expertise: Our facilitators bring deep knowledge of African institutions and fragile contexts, ensuring training is practical, localized, and relevant.
- Hands-On Approach: We blend learning with doing. Participants don't just listen, they design, test, and deploy real tools during the training.
- Tech-Driven Solutions: From data collection to dashboarding, we introduce the latest in MERL technology, including AI, mobile tools, and real-time analytics.
- Commitment to Impact: We measure our success by yours. We support your journey beyond the training with coaching, templates, and system advice.
- Trusted Track Record: Our programs have supported professionals across South Africa, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, and more, earning us a reputation for high-quality, results-oriented delivery.
Let’s Work Together!
Are you looking to modernize your Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning processes? Partner with us to equip your team with cutting-edge, context-specific digital MERL skills.