Introduction

Contraceptive Requirements and Logistics Management Needs

Training

Coordination and Collaboration

Monitoring and Evaluation

JOICFP-Executed Projects

Centres of Excellence for South to South Cooperation

Safe Motherhood Projects

HIV/AIDS Prevention Interventions

Implementing the Reproductive Health Approach

UNDAF Assessment

The UNFPA staff training programme for 1998 was based in part on a review of training needs as expressed by a cross-section of staff members. As in previous years, emphasis was on the training of field staff. Staff members also received training on the logical framework (logframe) analysis methodology, which was initiated in 1997. In addition, UNFPA's Training Branch and Country Support Teams both continued to conduct regional workshops on the logframe.

An internal evaluation of the 1997 logframe training workshops was completed. Workshop participants, the evaluation found, appreciated the fact that the training focused on explaining how the term logical framework, as used in the new programming guidelines, described an entire process — starting with problem analysis and going on to the systematic planning of interventions, determination of indicators to measure results, and monitoring and evaluation. The training, they agreed, clarified how the matrix serves as a tool in the programming process. Workshop attendees noted the value of using the logframe matrix to distinguish between what UNFPA could deliver at the end of a country programme (i.e., outputs) and its contribution to the achievement of overall goals and what other development partners could deliver and contribute.

The evaluation also found room for improvement. Logframe training materials could, it was agreed, be more user-friendly. It was also pointed out that the logframe matrix relied heavily on indicators to measure results, which may prove problematic in countries with inadequate baseline data. In response to the evaluation's findings, the workshops' curriculum and training materials were revised and updated.

At the regional level, workshops were conducted on finance management, including on the use of the UNFPA Integrated Field Office System (UNIFOS). Several in-region exchanges of national staff between various field offices were undertaken. It was reported that the staff exchanges provided excellent opportunities for capacity-building, sharing of experiences, orienting new staff to the Fund's operational activities, and familiarizing them with the day-to-day work in a field office. In addition, the staff exchanges provided the opportunity to draw on the experience of the more senior national staff and enrol them as trainers. UNFPA also continued to support the participation of staff members in the inter-agency workshops organized by the United Nations Staff College in Turin, Italy.

All headquarters-based staff were briefed on UNFPA's new programming procedures. In addition, there were briefing sessions on the Fund's core programme areas. Selected staff participated in workshops on the logframe, as well as on results-based monitoring and evaluation. All headquarters staff had the opportunity to attend training sessions on new office automation software, Microsoft Office 97. Some staff members also participated in short courses, conducted by external institutions, on supervisory skills, communication skills, writing skills and stress management.

During 1998 UNFPA worked on creating a learning-oriented culture within the organization. Its efforts were in line with the recommendations of the external evaluation of the Fund's staff training programme for the period 1992-1996. The Fund reinforced the role of managers and supervisors as on-the-job coaches. The new guidelines on staff training and development require managers and supervisors to foster an environment conducive to learning, to provide constant mentoring and to assess the impact of structured training on their staff's performances. Several initiatives to promote self-learning were also launched. A pilot exercise on computer-based training on financial rules and procedures relating to projects was completed and field-tested in the regional finance management/UNIFOS workshops conducted in Malaysia and Peru. CD-ROMs on that subject as well as on programming procedures will soon be made available Fund-wide. Staff were informed of distance learning opportunities, such as the nine-month "Capable Manager" programme offered by the United Kingdom's Open University, which was completed by four staff members. Fostering self-learning will continue to be a UNFPA priority.