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Develop tools for collecting data on paediatric HIV/AIDS training and support supervision done by this project.
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Develop a system for collection of data on training and support supervision.
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Develop a database for health care workers trained in paediatric HIV/AIDS care and treatment and counselling.
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Train project staff to maintain database and M&E system.
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To improve reporting at all levels by making it simpler, better and faster.
1.3 Approach to M&E
In this M&E framework system, an approach based on results was adopted, which is derived from four pillars:
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Defined strategic goals which provide a focus for action
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Specifications of expected outcomes which contribute to the achievement of the desired goals
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Alignment of processes, and resources in support of the expected outcomes
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Ongoing monitoring and assessment of performance, integrating lessons learnt into future planning; and improved accountability for results (whether this project made a difference in the HCWs’ capacity to provide quality paediatric HIV/AIDS services in Uganda).
The result-based monitoring system is based on the model of the linked hierarchy from inputs to activities to outputs to outcome and ultimately impacts1.
1.3.1 Monitoring
Monitoring is a continuous function that uses the systematic collection of data on specified indicators to provide management and the main stakeholders of an ongoing project with indicators of the extent of progress and achievement of objectives and progress in the use of allocated funds. It involves collecting, analyzing and reporting data on inputs, activities, outcomes, impacts and external factors, in a way that supports effective management. Monitoring usually reports on actual performance against what was planed or expected. Monitoring in this training project will be conducted at two levels: activity and output.
Activity monitoring
Activities are the processes or actions that use a range of inputs to produce the desired outputs and ultimately, outcomes. In essence, activities describe ‘what we do’. Activities will be managed and monitored by the program staff at the MOH AIDS Control Program (ACP). The program will maintain an activity database for tracking progress in terms of physical implementation of the specified targets according to work plan. For monitoring purposes, each activity plan specifies the output, activity description, activity schedule, inputs, progress indicators and targets.
Output monitoring
Outputs are final products, goods and services produced for delivery. Outputs may be defined as ‘what we produce or deliver’. They are the deliverables that the program budgets for and produce following implementation of the planned activities. Tracking outputs data will be obtained by aggregating results of from the activity database. Monitoring activities and outputs data will be captured by using structured data collection instruments (Annex II).
1.3.2 Evaluation
Evaluation is the systematic and objective assessment of an ongoing or completed project including its design, implementation, and results. It is a time-bound and periodic exercise that seeks to provide credible and useful information to answer specific questions (lessons learned) to guide decision making by project staff, managers, and policy makers. The aim is to determine the relevance and fulfillment of objectives, development efficiency, effectiveness, impact, and sustainability. Impact evaluations examine whether underlying theories and assumptions were valid, what worked, what did not and why. Evaluation can also be used to extract cross-cutting lessons from operating unit experiences and determining the need for modifications to strategic results framework.
We carry out evaluations when it is deemed that the interventions so far implemented are sufficient to have achieved a significant part of an objective. An objective is formulated as an outcome (strategic objective) and a good proposed design for achieving an objective requires specification of quantifiable results, a time frame, and a baseline for assessing change. In this training project for trainers and frontline HCWs, an evaluation will use evidence from quantitative results (knowledge) attained by participants during trainings; monitoring supervision data for TOTs and quantitative pre-test results as baseline to determine whether the targeted HCWs will have improved in knowledge to provide quality paediatric HIV/AIDS services in Uganda.
2. M&E SYSTEM FRAMEWORK
An M&E System is the set of organizational structures, management processes, standards, strategies, plans, indicators, information systems, reporting lines and accountability relationships which enables departments, stakeholders, and other institutions to discharge their M&E functions effectively. In this conceptual framework, we define the components of the system, how the system functions, the key players, relationships between players and assignment of responsibilities. The operational components in this M&E system (Figure 1) will include:
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Data collection system
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Data processing, analysis, storage, and reporting
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Evaluation for lesson learning
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Partner organizations as key stakeholders
The necessary activities that will drive the implementation and attainment of the required data will include: data collection system, processing, storage, analysis, reporting, and lesson learning. The data will influence the project implementation, planning, and ensuring sustainability of the training program to improve quality of paediatric HIV/AIDS services in Uganda.
2.1 Data Collection System
Field lead trainers and supervisors at national, regional, and district levels will ensure that training and supervision reports, and the supporting tools (Annex II and III) are completed during field implementation. Designated lead trainers by the implementing organizations will ensure that all training reports and supporting tools are delivered to the administrator at the MOH ACP offices in both electronic and paper form in a timely manner. The ACP program officer at the MOH will institute an administrative mechanism to ensure that implementing organizations deliver timely the training reports and supporting tools to the ACP offices.
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