NextBillion - A WDI Publication

Collecting accurate and meaningful data lies at the heart of effective program design, implementation, and policymaking. Make Measurement Matter: Designing Surveys For Better Evidence (MMM2026) is a three-day, in-person course to equip development professionals with the theoretical knowledge and practical tools to design robust surveys to drive data-use and evidence-based decisions. Applications close on January 6, 2026.

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Early-bird discount: Applicants who apply before 14-Dec-2025 will receive a 10% discount.

About the Course
MMM2026 marks an evolution of J-PAL South Asia’s long-running Measurement and Survey Design Course (MSDC).

While MSDC focused on introducing foundational measurement theory and quantitative survey design, emphasizing abstract concepts, SMART indicators, piloting protocols, and field management basics, MMM 2026 offers a broader and more applied orientation, expanding the scope to focus more directly on how organizations can use data and evidence to strengthen real-world program decisions.

While the core strengths of MSDC remain – rigorous measurement concepts, systematic survey design, and J-PAL’s field-based expertise – the 2026 chapter places greater emphasis on practical applicability, decision relevance, and integrating measurement into day-to-day program cycles, making it a distinct new edition within the same learning tradition.

Course Focus
The course blends conceptual clarity with practical exposure across the entire data lifecycle, featuring essential concepts in measurement theory and quantitative survey design strategies.

MMM2026 incorporates brand new modules on data use, visualization, impact communication, and practical field trade-offs, alongside hands-on “think-through” exercises that help participants design tools grounded in their operational contexts, training participants in designing surveys that directly improve evidence use and decision-making within organizations.

Participants will learn to:

Identify when and why to collect data for program design and evaluation
Develop robust theories of change and select SMART indicators
Design accurate and reliable survey instruments
Ensure measurement quality and minimize bias
Pilot, digitize, and manage survey tools effectively
Analyze, synthesize, and communicate findings for decision-making
Navigate field challenges and balance rigor with feasibility
Build internal capacity for evidence use and knowledge transfer within organizations
View the tentative agenda of MMM2026 for more information on the course structure. Please note that the agenda is subject to change.

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Who Should Attend
The course is designed for professionals involved in data collection, analysis, and use—whether for implementation, research, or evaluation. It will be especially relevant for:

Practitioners from implementing organizations and NGOs
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) professionals and researchers
Donor organizations, philanthropic foundations, and multilaterals supporting evidence-based programs
Students and early- to mid-career professionals seeking to strengthen quantitative and field research skills

Our delegates are high-level policy and decision makers and practitioners from education, business and government – the three key areas driving ICT supported learning and training adoption and innovation.

We attract an average of over 1.300 education and training practitioners, decision makers, policy makers, leaders, experts as well as investors and providers of education and training, with 80% coming from across the African Continent in one convenient place. Participants involved in digital education, training and skills development forge multinational and cross-industry contacts and partnerships, whilst enhancing their knowledge, expertise and skills.

Why attend eLearning Africa?

Established in 2005, eLearning Africa is the largest and most comprehensive knowledge-sharing event for digital education, training, and skills on the African continent. It is the leading platform for government representatives, top decision-makers, policy-makers, experts, and practitioners across all sectors, including public and private education, and corporate learning & development.

eLearning Africa places you at the cutting edge of learning technologies and edtech developments, offering invaluable opportunities for participants, partners, and exhibitors:

• Expert Insights: : Gain deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges transforming the learning landscape. Learn how to effectively select and use various technologies.
• Best Practices: Discover proven approaches and strategies from leading institutions and organisations. Engage in 70+ break-out sessions with 240+ expert speakers from 40+ countries.
• Pre-Conference Activities: Participate in engaging pre-conference activities to enhance your learning experience.
• Case Studies: Follow real-world case studies that present critical success factors, and discuss innovative approaches with peers.
• Networking: Connect with over 1,300 learning professionals from education, workplace learning, and government sectors. Forge essential international contacts and partnerships.
• Practical Implementation: Receive practical advice to implement new solutions in your own work and learning environment and develop a framework for action tailored to your organisation’s and learners’ needs.
• Exhibition: Explore the central exhibition where leading international digital learning providers offer hands-on demonstrations of innovative products, solutions and tools.
• Latest Trends: Stay ahead of the curve by analysing the latest trends in digital learning and training.
• Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Build a multinational and cross-industry network with top-tier professionals.
• Catalyst for Knowledge and Skills: Participate in sessions designed to empower you with the latest knowledge and skills, keeping you at the forefront of the ever-evolving world of eLearning.
• Community of Practice: Join a thriving network of influential figures in African digital education, training, and skills development. This community extends far beyond the event, continuously shaping the future of learning.