Development of a web-based system to enhance monitoring and evaluation of higher education centers of excellence in Africa

Abstract

The World Bank launched the Eastern and Southern Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence Project (ACE II) in 2016 to establish regional education and research centers in Africa. The initiative aims to train a generation of Africans to solve African challenges in industry, health, agriculture, applied statistics, and education. The ACE II seeks to improve post-graduate education and promote joint research at 29 ACEs in Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Monitoring and evaluation of ACE II thrives on data. However, using Microsoft Excel sheets for data capturing and storage is challenging due to its disintegration per center and time-consuming to analyze. The ACE II lacks cumulative and informative visual data for impact demonstration, a feedback mechanism for the beneficiaries, and a dedicated communication channel for stakeholders. The project report presents ACE II Insight Hub, a system developed to enhance the monitoring and evaluation of Higher Education Centers of Excellence in Africa. The study utilized qualitative and quantitative research methods, structured interviews and survey questionnaires for data collection. Twenty-five (25) participants were selected using purposive sampling. Participation was voluntary and anonymous. Quantitative data were analyzed using Google Forms as graphs and pie charts. Thematic analysis and document analysis were applied to qualitative data and review of documents previously submitted. The system was deployed on the IUCEA intranet, user was trained and validated the system by filling out an online questionnaire. The ACE II Insight Hub aims to enhance stakeholder engagement, evidence-based decision-making, project performance, impact assessment, and accountability for higher education Centers of Excellence in Africa.