Resourcing of the Monitoring & Evaluation function

The recommendation to Programme Management Units (PMU) is to budget at least one dedicated M&E position of the appropriate level of seniority depending on the program complexity (number of service delivery areas, number and capacity of sub-recipients and other). It is not advisable to have a combined Programme/M&E position, unless it is in the managerial / oversight role, for the following reasons:

• Integrating M&E tasks into the job description of Programme analysts does not provide an optimum level of independence to exercise the oversight role linked to M&E activities, as observed by OAI audits.
• The multitude and, typically, a high priority of programme tasks could leave a lot of monitoring and evaluation work without due attention and time commitment.
• Finding specialists who combine programme experience with strong M&E expertise is a challenge in many contexts.
• Insufficient M&E capacities may prevent the PMU from benefiting from lessons learned to manage performance and support evidence-based decision-making. This could also undermine provision of support necessary for strengthening national health management information systems.

It is strongly recommended to include a written test into the Recruitment Strategy for the M&E roles, prior to interviews. Written tests allow thoroughly assessing technical knowledge and analytical skills, written communication, attention to detail and ability to work under pressure. The selection panel should include professionals with robust understanding of monitoring and evaluation who will evaluate written tests and assess responses of the candidates to technical questions at the interview. Please reach out to your grant M&E Specialist from the UNDP-Global Fund Partnership Team for support in the selection process.