MEAL Planning in Practice (2026) – Self-Study Course

by

A practical Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) course designed for small NGOs. Learn to build functional systems without a dedicated M&E team. Enrol now.

Training Course: MEAL Planning in Practice (2026)

Organization: ELD Impact

Format: Self-Study Certificate Course (Video & Tools)

Duration: Approx. 3 hours (Self-paced)

Status: Open for Immediate Access

Fee: $49.00 USD (Lifetime Access)

The Operational Challenge

For many small to medium-sized NGOs, Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) is often assigned to program staff who lack specialized training. Standard M&E frameworks are frequently too complex for smaller teams, leading to data collection that burdens staff without informing decision-making.

Without a functional system, organizations face significant risks: an inability to prove impact to donors, a lack of clarity on whether programs are reaching the most vulnerable, and “scrambled” reporting at the end of project cycles.

MEAL Planning in Practice is designed to solve this specific problem. It rejects complex theory in favor of a streamlined, working system that can be implemented immediately by non-specialists.

Course Objectives

This training provides a direct methodology for building a MEAL system from scratch. By following a realistic case study of a program officer, participants learn to answer critical questions regarding impact, reach, and donor compliance.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • System Design: Construct a comprehensive MEAL Framework Table using a proven 9-column planning structure.
  • Indicator Development: Design robust indicators that measure both the reach (quantity) and quality of your interventions.
  • Target Setting: Establish realistic targets based on operational context rather than aspirational thinking.
  • Data Utilization: Learn to conduct “Monthly Learning Meetings” that transform raw data into management decisions.
  • Donor Communication: Gain the confidence to articulate your MEAL strategy clearly to funders.

Methodology and Tools

The course is led by Neil Kendrick, founder of ELD Impact, who brings over 25 years of experience training humanitarian professionals in more than 20 countries.

The curriculum combines video instruction with downloadable, ready-to-use operational tools:

  1. The MEAL Framework Table: A 9-column planning tool that defines exactly what to measure, calculation methods, data sources, and responsibilities.
  2. The Learning Meeting Template: A structured 4-part agenda to ensure data is reviewed and acted upon monthly.
  3. The Quality Checklist: A review tool to validate your plan before implementation.

Registration and Access

Cost: $49.00 USD Inclusions: Lifetime access to all video modules, downloadable tools, handouts, and a Certificate of Professional Achievement upon completion.

To view the full curriculum or to register, please visit the course page below.

Click Here to Register and Start Immediately

For inquiries, please contact: mail@eldtraining.com

Leave a Comment