The position

Job Purpose:
This role will lead the design and implementation of MEL systems for MECPU, while also contributing to the broader MEL function of AKFU. The role ensures that programme data is collected rigorously, analyzed meaningfully, and used actively to improve the quality of ECD delivered through the Madrasa preschool network. Beyond data collection, this role champions a culture of evidence-based decision-making, translating findings into clear programme insights, and supports donor and stakeholder reporting.

Job Purpose.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Systems 

• Design, maintain, and continuously improve the MECPU MEL framework, including the programme’s ToC, and Results Framework.
• Establish clear and quality data flow processes from preschool level through field supervisors to the central programme office.
• Coordinate and support periodic programme evaluations (baseline, midline, endline).
• Contribute to the AKFU MEL function by aligning MECPU data systems with foundation-wide reporting requirements, frameworks, and standards.

Data Management and Analysis

• Oversee the management of MECPU’s programme data, maintaining a clean, up-to-date, and accessible central database of beneficiaries.
• Conduct regular quantitative and qualitative analysis of programme data to track progress against targets.
• Produce clear, concise data visualisations, dashboards, and summary reports.

Programme Quality and Learning 

• Translate MEL findings into practical programme adjustments, supporting an active feedback loop between evidence and action.
• Document case studies, lessons learned, and programme innovations in formats that can be shared across the regional MECP network and with the wider ECD sector.
• Support the development and review of programme tools, operational guidelines, and quality benchmarks.

Field Monitoring and Supportive Supervision 

• Conduct regular field visits to Madrasa preschools to observe teaching practice, verify data reported by field teams, and provide direct support to teachers.
• Ensure systematic follow-up on findings from field visits, tracking the resolution of issues identified and reporting progress to the Programme Director.
• Support the training of field staff in the use of data collection tools, observation protocols, and basic data interpretation.

Reporting and Stakeholder Communication 

• Lead the preparation of programme reports for the National Board, the Programme Director, and AKFU.
• Contribute data, evidence, and analysis to donor reports, grant proposals, and strategic communications.
• Represent MECPU in relevant MEL working and learning networks, and coordination forums within the AKDN and the broader ECD sector in Uganda.

Research and Knowledge Management 

• Support the design and implementation of action research and studies that strengthen the evidence base for the MECPU model of ECD.
• Maintain an organised, accessible knowledge management system for reports, evaluation studies, and learning documents.
• Stay current with developments in ECD research, MEL methodologies, and relevant national and international policy frameworks.

Cross-Institutional Coordination (MECPU and AKFU) 

• Act as the primary MEL focal point between MECPU and AKFU, ensuring MECPU data and reporting are integrated into AKFU’s foundation-wide MEL architecture and impact narrative.
• Participate in AKFU programme coordination meetings, contributing MECPU’s evidence and learning to cross-programme discussions.
• Support AKFU in any joint monitoring activities, thematic evaluations, or portfolio-level learning processes.

The requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (required) in Education, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Statistics, Public Health, or a closely related field.
• Formal training or certification in monitoring and evaluation, research methods, or data management is a distinct advantage.

Experience

Sector

Social Development

About the Agency

The Madrasa Early Childhood Programme (MECP), an affiliate of the Aga Khan Foundation, was established in East Africa in the 1980s to improve access and quality of Early Childhood care and services in marginalized communities on the Coast of Kenya, Zanzibar and Uganda. As a locally rooted entity with an entirely local staff, MECP has been a driving force in championing affordable, high-quality Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs for the past four decades.
MECP works with key stakeholders to deliver (ECD) interventions for children ages 0-8. MECPs have been working closely with governments to enhance delivery of quality ECD interventions focusing on supporting front-line education and health workers and influencing ECD policy and practice, including quality teacher training. To date, MECP has trained over 8,000 teachers and reached over 1 million children. MECP’s technical proficiency spans across various domains, including teacher capacity development, curriculum design, community engagement, and program evaluation. Graduates of MECP have successfully and consistently transitioned to higher levels of education, and over 10,000 have gained employment as ECD teachers, head teachers, caregivers, and community development workers.