The Competences Framework
The Capacity Building Unit at ACRES has developed a comprehensive Competency Framework, designed to identify and map the essential skills and knowledge required for effective Evidence-Informed Decision Making (EIDM) practice. The study revealed that EIDM practitioners require a broad set of competencies, including:
- Technical competencies: knowledge, skills, and attitudes to execute EIDM activities.
- Cultural competencies: understanding diverse needs, perspectives, and values to ensure inclusive and equitable evidence synthesis.
- Collaborative competencies: interdisciplinary approaches to foster innovation, creativity, and knowledge exchange.
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Developing a curriculum for Evidence-Informed Decision Making (EIDM) practitioners
The Capacity Building Unit developed a comprehensive curriculum to equip individuals with the necessary competencies to implement EIDM effectively.
EIDM is crucial for policy effectiveness and resource allocation. However, capacity development strategies in Africa have been inadequate. Our curriculum looks at addressing this gap by integrating training programs with mentoring and transformational learning experiences. It outlines competencies required for pre-service and in-service training.
By integrating training programs with mentoring and transformational learning experiences, we’re confident that our curriculum will contribute to positive outcomes in African communities.
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Bridging the gap in Evidence-Informed Decision-Making: The Evidence for Policy Training Programme
Africa is facing many big challenges that need to be solved with good decisions based on reliable evidence. However, many African policymakers and researchers lack the necessary skills to use this information effectively.
To address this problem, ACRES created the Evidence for Policy Training Programme. This program intends to equip policymakers and researchers with skills on how to use reliable information to make timely decisions, helping to reduce poverty and inequality.
The goal is to empower them with the skills and knowledge needed to make informed decisions that benefit everyone.
The programme is designed to:
- Enhance understanding of EIDM principles and practices.
- Foster collaboration and networking among policymakers, researchers, and interns.
- Develop practical skills for evidence-based decision-making.
The 15-week Entry-level program kicked off on September 30, 2024, with a residential workshop in Kampala, bringing together learners (Policy makers and researchers) from Uganda, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
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Orientation program: Empowering our team for success
At the Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES), we recognize the importance of orientation in ensuring our team’s success.
In May 2024, the Capacity Building Unit designed and conducted an orientation program to provide new and existing staff with a comprehensive understanding of ACRES’ mission, values, and objectives. The program aimed to equip staff with the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources to excel in their roles.
A week-long orientation program was conducted for new and existing staff. The program included a mix of structured training sessions, interactive activities, and hands-on practical exercises
Training sessions were conducted on the Rapid Response Service (RRS), Evidence-Informed Policy (EIP) Framework, and critical software platforms among others.
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