The PMEL (Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning) Unit at RUFORUM is responsible for proving that RUFORUM investments are yielding results among the beneficiaries. We trace the impact of our investments at three levels – (1) RUFORUM Secretariat, (2) RUFORUM Network (including member universities, champions, strategic partners, national forums & governance bodies), (3) Wider agricultural network (including national governments, farmers and other stakeholders).
We measure our impact through regular studies, field visits and grantee reports. Program units at the Secretariat are engaged to make sure that data collection from the field meets the expected standards in terms of quality and consistency. Studies are carried out at 3 levels - baseline, mid-term and end-of-project evaluation. Results from these studies are used as evidence to inform learning, improvement and accountability to stakeholders.
Key functions of PMEL
RUFORUM’s PMEL Unit collects, analyzes, manages, and reports on data and information that is used to:
- Monitor progress towards outcomes;
- Inform the management about research and training investments;
- Facilitate the testing of key assumptions within the AGRA strategy, programs, and grants;
- Methodically capture lessons learned from successes and failures;
- Evaluate how RUFORUM’s investments contribute to strengthening the human capital and research capacities of the member universities, national research systems and agricultural development to improve the lives of smallholder farmers;
- Manage risk.
RUFORUM places a strong emphasis on the innovative use of ICTs as an underpinning of the M&E processes.