By Tilda Acorlor
The Young and Safe Project has concluded a capacity-building workshop for monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) officers, NGOs, government agencies and youth programme leads in Ho.
The workshop aimed to equip participants with the skills needed to transform data into actionable insights, strengthening their ability to make evidence-based and data-driven decisions.
Led by MEL consultant Isaac Newton Bortey and MEL lead Joanna Kwame, the session focused on data visualisation, storytelling and the role of indicators in monitoring and evaluation. About 30 participants were trained on how to turn raw data into meaningful insights, using visual tools such as line charts, pie charts and scatter plots to communicate evidence effectively.
Participants were also guided on best practices in data presentation, including simplifying charts, using clear labels, maintaining consistent colours and applying effective white space to improve clarity and impact.
Ms Kwame highlighted the importance of data analysis in storytelling, noting that well-presented data helps institutions, government agencies, policymakers, donors and communities to understand evidence and make informed decisions that benefit young people and society.
Mr Bortey underscored the critical role of indicators in monitoring and evaluation, explaining that selecting the right indicators is essential for measuring project success. He added that monitoring focuses on routine data collection, while evaluation assesses the impact of interventions using clearly defined indicators.
Organisers said the workshop is expected to strengthen participants’ skills in data analysis and interpretation, contributing to more effective decision-making and improved outcomes for young people in Ghana. Participants said the knowledge gained would help them carry out their work more effectively.
