Job Description
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer will support the delivery of PEAS’ MEL objectives by conducting monitoring, evaluation, and learning activities. This role involves data collection, analysis, and reporting to measure program performance and inform decision-making. The officer will focus on two key areas:
1. Improving PEAS’ own school network: Enhancing access, quality, and sustainability of secondary education in PEAS schools.
2. Supporting system-strengthening programs: Delivering technical assistance to non-PEAS schools in collaboration with government and other stakeholders.
The MEL Officer will play a key role in advancing PEAS’ strategic ambitions by supporting effective performance measurement across access, quality, and sustainability. This includes establishing robust monitoring systems, ensuring data quality, and driving data-driven learning and decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Monitoring and Evaluation System Development
• Assist in developing and refining monitoring and evaluation systems for the PEAS Uganda network.
• Collaborate with team members to develop and pilot MEL tools to ensure necessary data is collected effectively.
• Train staff on MEL objectives, tools, and data collection processes.
Data Collection and Management
• Collect data from PEAS and partner schools through a supportive and collaborative approach.
• Participate in data collection exercises, including on-site visits to address data gaps.
• Ensure all staff and partners understand their roles in data collection and MEL reporting processes.
• Support data entry and ensure timely updates in PEAS’ School Information Management System (School Tool+).
Technology Integration
• Train school and country office staff on using technology for data collection and reporting, such as handheld devices.
• Assist schools in effectively using PEAS’ School Tool+ system to input data and generate actionable reports.
Using Data for Learning and Decision-Making
• Train school leaders and School Support Officers to use data for school management and student support, including strategies to assist vulnerable students.
• Conduct data analysis to generate insights and share findings with internal teams to guide strategic decisions.
• Provide data and analysis to align with PEAS’ long-term strategic goals.
Quality Assurance
• Conduct on-site spot checks and data quality assessments to ensure the validity, reliability, and accuracy of reported data.
• Perform data cleaning and identify inconsistencies using tools like Excel and Kobo Toolkit.
• Provide constructive feedback to staff and schools to promote continuous learning and improvement.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
• Bachelor’s degree in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning, Statistics, Quantitative Economics, or related fields.
• At least two (2) years of experience in MEL within the education sector or a related field.
• Proven track record of improving MEL systems in low-resource settings.
• Experience working with international NGOs, particularly in collaboration with government education ministries.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience managing data collection activities.
• Experience in designing MEL approaches for marginalized groups, such as vulnerable girls or children with special education needs.
Desired:
• Master’s degree in a related field is an added advantage.
• Experience managing MEL activities funded by institutional or bi-lateral donors (e.g., FCDO, USAID).
• Experience using data analysis tools, such as R or SPSS.
Skills and Personal Attributes
• Strong analytical skills to interpret school data and inform decision-making.
• Adaptable, flexible, and resilient with the ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of motivating and persuading others.
• Independent, self-motivated worker with professional maturity to handle challenging situations.
• Ability to train and mentor school staff and colleagues to effectively use data for school improvement.
Why Join PEAS?
This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to transformative education programs in Uganda. As part of a growing and dynamic team, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of education for underserved communities. Join us to make a lasting impact on students’ education and life outcomes