Introduction to Basic Research and Policy Analysis Course Number 19

“ My people perish for lack of knowledge” (Poverbs 29:18)

Introduction

As the foundation for data used in development, Research and Socio-economic Policies undergo many changes every time. Hence the need to explore current qualitative and quantitative techniques for information collection. Development organizations always consider such study and policy analysis techniques to determine the impact of their interventions on large-scale issues regarding poverty, environment, and health care among others.Long - term change efforts are unlikely to succeed unless there is an enabling framework for social development. As implementers NGOs, FBOs and CBOs increasingly play a vital and dynamic role in engaging Governments and the market to ensure availability of a just and equitable policy. This course will introduce research and policy analysis courses to assist participants in effective data collection, utilization and for the success of their programmes.

Course Objectives
At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
• Appreciate and be aware of the importance of research and documentation in different areas of national/international importance.
• Stimulate the initiative to apply and compete for research grants by individuals and institutions;
• Concisely present the essential features of acceptable research proposals;
• Sensitize participants to the responsibilities arising out of a successful application for a research grant, such as ethical issues, adequate reporting and overall management of the project, including funds.
• Understand SPSS and other statistical packages;

Course content
• Research concepts in the realm of development.
• Policy concepts (policy analysis and influencing).
• Effective research methodologies.
• Data collection and analysis techniques.
• Preparing a policy document/paper.
• Influencing policy change.
• Various statistical packages for social science research
• Understanding the link between project activities and policy decision making at all levels

Target Group
This course is intended for organizational leaders, project directors, researchers, policy analysts, technical
assistance staff, managers and programme officers.

Course Duration: 3 Days

Course Fees: Kshs. 15,000

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Advocacy, Lobbying, Networking/Alliance building Course Number 20

How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news! (Romans 10:15)

Introduction

Advocacy, lobbying and networking are concepts that are based on the understanding that at certain stages of development, there is need for advocates who work on behalf of communities influencing policy and activities in favour of people’s needs. At the same time, networking and alliance building in development underpins the notion that no single actor can influence processes of change singlehandedly hence the on-going alliance and partnership developments. This course explores very important tools for influencing decision and engagement for development within organizations/institutions as well as a community. Networking is understood in the context of building contacts, and associations within different domains and utilizing such to make the most effective use of chance meetings at conferences and parties among others.

Course Objectives
At the end of this course the participants will be able to :
• Have a clear comprehension of concepts, objectives, principles, instruments of lobbying, networing and alliance building and advocacy.
• Overcome challenges that hamper communication
• Jointly plan and prepare for an event
• Identify the do’s and don’t’s
• Undertake lobbying activities.
• Plan advocacy campaigns.

Course Content
The contents of the course will include the following:
• Importance of networking, lobbying and advocacy.
• How to identify opportunities and relevant advocacy issues.
• Building friendship for support and mobilization.
• Collaborating with like minded organizations.
• How to design and pre-test messages for various target groups before going public.
• Linkages with media in advocacy and lobbying.
• Networking and lobbying the policy makers i.e. parliamentarians, religious groups, senior government officials etc.
• Creating consensus and dealing with divergent views (addressing / countering the opposition).
• Fund-raising for advocacy.

Target Group

The course is intended for senior and mid-level programme/projects managers, directors of NGOs, CBOs, and leaders in faith-based institutions and government officers.

Course Duration: 3 Days
Course Fees: Kshs. 15,000