Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning (MEAL)

In a region where programs must constantly adapt to shifting contexts, funding cuts, and urgent community needs, the ability to track, prove, and improve your impact has never been more vital. For NGOs operating in Lebanon and the broader MENA region, MEAL isn’t just a technical function — it’s a strategic lifeline.

Donors are demanding greater transparency. Communities are calling for more accountability. And internally, organizations need better data to make tough decisions, adjust programming, and communicate value beyond outputs. Yet, many teams still struggle with inconsistent frameworks, unclear indicators, and disconnected learning processes.

This course goes beyond the basics. It helps development professionals embed MEAL as a culture — one that enables agile learning, drives evidence-based decision-making, and ultimately enhances trust with all stakeholders. Whether you’re designing a new project or scaling an existing one, this course equips you to build smarter systems, measure what truly matters, and translate data into action.

What You’ll Gain

A MEAL System Built for Impact
Design and implement MEAL frameworks aligned with your organization’s goals and donor requirements — ensuring consistency, usability, and relevance.

SMART Indicators & Data Tools
Craft meaningful indicators and select the right quantitative and qualitative tools for accurate, ethical, and context-sensitive data collection.

Accountability Mechanisms that Work
Integrate community feedback loops and complaint mechanisms that build trust, participation, and shared ownership of outcomes.

Insightful Analysis & Storytelling
Turn raw data into actionable insights and compelling reports that inspire funders, inform teams, and drive smarter decisions.

Learning-Driven Program Adaptation
Foster a learning culture that embraces feedback, uses real-time information, and continuously adapts for greater impact and relevance.

Whether you’re an M&E officer, a program manager, or an NGO leader, this course will help you move from routine reporting to transformative learning.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to MEAL – Key Concepts & Frameworks.
• Developing Indicators & Selecting Data Collection Methods.
• Accountability to Affected People (AAP) & Community Feedback.
• Data Analysis & Visualization for Decision-Making.
• Developing MEAL Reports & Communicating Impact to Donors.

Training Agenda

• Introduction to MEAL: Key Concepts & Frameworks

  • Role of MEAL in the Project Cycle

• Developing Indicators

  • SMART Indicators & Alignment with Program Goals

• Selecting Data Collection Methods

  • Qualitative vs. Quantitative Approaches

• Group Exercises: Defining Project-Specific Indicators
• Accountability to Affected People (AAP) & Community Feedback

  • Participatory Monitoring & Feedback Mechanisms

• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools

  • Basic Statistical Techniques, Visualization Platforms

• Hands-On Practice with Sample Data
• Developing MEAL Reports & Communicating Impact

  • Report Structuring, Targeting Donor Requirements

• Integrating MEAL for Adaptive Programming
• Final Presentations & Action Planning

Target Audience: M&E specialists, program managers, project coordinators.