Enhancing Skills in Data Analysis and Project Management

Under the EIGS Grant of the EU-ZIRA3A Programme, and implemented by the Cairo Center for Development Benchmarking (CDB), a comprehensive capacity-building programme was delivered by the School of Continuing Education at the American University in Cairo (AUC). Over five weeks, four specialized workshopswere conducted for 80 staff members from the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation (MALR), strengthening their analytical and project management skills across Cairo, Sohag, Assiut, and Beni Suef.

CDB 1

Advanced Data Analysis for Project Development

Enhancing Data-driven Decision Making

The first workshop focused on strengthening data analysis competencies to enhance evidence-based project design. Professionals from the Foreign Agricultural Relations Department (FAR)participated in this two-day course, where they refined their ability to structure, process, and analyze data using advanced techniques.

“This workshop opened my eyes to how data can directly shape impactful projects,” said one participant, highlighting the session’s practical focus and relevance to daily work.

CDB 2

Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks

Designing Effective Evaluation Strategies

The second two-day workshop introduced the fundamentals of designing effective Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) systems. Participants learned how to define clear objectives, develop performance indicators, and draft comprehensive evaluation reports.

“I now feel confident aligning evaluation strategies with our project goals,” shared one MALR staff member, highlighting the workshop’s clarity and hands-on approach.

CDB 3

Data Collection, Handling, and Analysis

Building Strong Foundations for Research and Ethics

This 12-hour training equipped participants with essential tools to manage data ethically and efficiently. The sessions covered both qualitative and quantitative research methods, data collection tools, and ethical considerations.

“What we gained is a better understanding of how to manage and interpret data,” commented one attendee, reflecting the workshop’s immediate operational impact.

CDB 4

Final Training Courses & Closing Ceremony

Empowering MALR Staff for Sustainable Impact

The capacity-building workshops collectively strengthened participants’ proficiency in data collection and analysis, research design, and M&E framework development — empowering MALR staff to monitor and evaluate rural development programs more effectively.

The closing ceremony celebrated the successful completion of the program and was attended by key representatives:

• Dr. Saad Moussa, Supervisor of Foreign Agricultural Relations (FAR), MALR
• Dr. Eslam El Fadly, Programme Officer, EU-ZIRA3A
• Ms. Noha Salem, Associate Director, School of Continuing Education, AUC
• Dr. Maha Ismail, Executive Director, CDB

CDB 5

Specialized Training for Plant Quarantine Staff

Enhancing Pomegranate Inspection and Sampling Skills

Under the framework of the EU-ZIRA3A Programme, funded by the European Union, a specialized training was held for 30 staff members from the Central Administration of Plant Quarantine at the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation.

The workshop focused on building skills in visual inspection and sampling of pomegranates, covering procedures for pesticide residue analysis and documentation standards.

Attended by Dr. Mohamed El-Mansi and Dr. Islam Farahat, the training highlighted the importance of strong inspection systems to boost export competitiveness. A field visit to Deltex Farm offered participants hands-on practice, reinforcing the course’s practical impact.

CDB 6

Advanced Data Analysis Using Power BI and SPSS

Strengthening Evidence-based Decision Making

As part of the EIGS Grant under the EU-ZIRA3A Programme, a two-day training titled “Advanced Data Analysis Using Power BI and SPSS” was held in Cairo. The session brought together 17 staff members from the Foreign Agricultural Relations Department (MALR)to enhance their skills in data management and analysis.

Participants learned how to transform raw data into actionable insights through interactive dashboards, statistical tests, and forecasting tools. Hosted at the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, Cairo University, the training combined theory and hands-on exercises to strengthen data-driven decision making across institutions.

CDB 7

Sampling of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants for Visual Inspection

Strengthening Pest Detection and Export Compliance

Under the EIGS Grantof the EU-ZIRA3A Programme, a two-day training titled “Sampling of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants for Visual Inspection” was concluded, bringing together 39 specialists from the Egyptian Plant Quarantine Department.

Participants enhanced their technical skills in sampling, inspection, and pest detection through both theoretical sessions and hands-on exercises at the Faridale Factory. The training improved practical accuracy in pest identification and promoted stronger safety standards in agricultural exports.

CDB 8

Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks

Designing Effective Evaluation Strategies

Under the EIGS Grant of the EU-ZIRA3A Programme, a training titled “Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks – Designing an Effective Evaluation Strategy” was held in collaboration with the Cairo Center for Development Benchmarking (CDB)for 19 staff membersfrom the Foreign Agricultural Relations Department (MALR).

Participants enhanced their abilities in data analysis, visualizing results, and transforming findings into actionable recommendations—supporting stronger monitoring and evaluation practices across agricultural projects.

CDB 9

Building Capacities in Project Monitoring & Evaluation

Enhancing Decision Support Skills

Under the EIGS Grant of the EU-ZIRA3A Programme, a two-day training titled “Building Capacities in Project Monitoring and Evaluation: Enhancing Decision Support Skills” was conducted in collaboration with the Foreign Agricultural Relations Department (MALR)andtheCairo Center for Development Benchmarking (CDB).

The training gathered 20 participants who strengthened their skills in monitoring project activities, designing logical frameworks, and developing effective M&E plans through practical sessions and exercises.

Participants enhanced their capacity to make data-driven decisions, identify gaps, and improve institutional performance—supporting stronger evaluation practices across agricultural projects.