Consultant - Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Framework

Background
Partners in Education Ethiopia (Partners) is a non-denominational Canadian charity dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged people through quality, inclusive education. We use a holistic, community-driven approach that goes beyond classrooms to strengthen the full education ecosystem. Every project begins with local leadership: communities contribute, on average, 60–80% of project costs, ensuring shared responsibility and sustainability.

Since 2015, Partners has supported Ethiopian schools and communities through five-year partnerships to deliver:
•	School infrastructure: 31 schools built, serving 36,666 children at no cost to parents.
•	Teacher and leader capacity development: 1,307 teachers and leaders trained.
•	Teaching and learning resources: Books, science kits, and sports equipment provided to 31 schools.
•	Interconnectivity: 13 digital learning centers established (one solar-powered).
•	Special needs education: 315 children supported 11 centers.
•	Water, hygiene and sanitation: 118 latrine and menstrual hygiene blocks built; 103,000 students and parents received hygiene and sanitation training.
•	Eye health: Over 206,197 assessments conducted; 65,000 people supported glasses and/or treatment (including surgery); 9 vision centers established.
•	School greening and educational gardening: Green outdoor classrooms and gardens were established in 31 schools.

Rationale for Updating Our Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning System
Over the past decade, our programs and geographic reach have expanded significantly, and our partnerships have diversified. While technological advances have streamlined MEL processes, our commitment to continuous learning, sustainability, community participation, inclusion, and gender sensitivity demands an upgraded system. To strengthen accountability for impact and funding, we are modernizing how we collect and use evidence for decision-making, fundraising, and influencing policy and practice. We are seeking a pro bono consultant to lead this vital initiative.

Overview
The consultant will audit current MEL systems and practices and co-develop a participatory, gender-sensitive, inclusive, and tech-enabled MEL framework and operational M&E plan. The proposed approach and deliverables are outlined by phase below.

Phase 1 — Audit and Gap Analysis (Weeks 1–3)
Deliverable: Audit findings and gap analysis matrix
Activities:
•	Review existing documents, tools, and technologies used for MEL
•	Interview key staff and stakeholders
•	Assess horizontal alignment across programs and vertical alignment with problem → activities → outputs → outcomes → goals, organizational mission, SDGs, and government priorities
•	Identify strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement, benchmark current practices and technologies against accepted standards

Phase 2 — Co-create Comprehensive MEL Framework (Weeks 4–12)
Deliverable: Draft and final MEL framework, including the components below.
2.1 Theory of Change (ToC)
2.2 Results Framework
2.3 Indicator Development Using SMART Criteria
2.4 Data Collection Methods and Sources
2.5 Baseline Studies and Targets
2.6 Comprehensive M&E Plan (Operational)
2.7 Donor Reporting and DAC Criteria Integration
2.8 Risk Management and Adaptive Frameworks
2.9 Technology for Real-Time M&E
Note - more details will be made available to selected applicants.

Phase 3 — Testing and Handover (Weeks 13–15)
Deliverables:
•	Pilot MEL tools and methodologies in 2–3 schools; collect feedback and revise tools
•	Capacity building: train staff on MEL workflows, data collection and analysis, impact reporting, adaptive management, and use of evidence for grant writing and decision-making
•	Final package: MEL framework, M&E plan, tools, templates, training materials, and a handover report

Consultant Qualifications and Experience
•	Minimum 5 years’ experience designing participatory, gender-sensitive, inclusive, and tech-enabled MEL systems in the non-profit/development sector. 
•	Proven experience integrating exit strategies into program design. 
•	Experience conducting development project evaluations.
•	Familiarity with the Ethiopian education and health sectors.
•	Fluency in user-friendly and cost-effective MEL technologies and tools and
•	Strong facilitation and capacity-building skills. 

Partners Support to the Consultant
Partners will provide dedicated support to ensure the consultant is able to work effectively and not operating in isolation. The Director of Programs will provide guidance and coordination throughout the engagement. The consultant will have full access to existing MEL data, tools, documentation, and relevant partners, as well as regular check-ins to support decision-making and progress. Admin support will be provided by Partners staff to facilitate scheduling, information sharing, and smooth implementation of the assignment.