Advancing Evaluation Frameworks and Methods

This session will delve into global experiences and cross-country practices in strengthening evaluation systems, with a focus on their relevance to diverse national contexts. The session aims to explore how evaluation can be better aligned with policy and decision-making cycles, ensuring that evidence is timely, relevant, and actionable. It will further examine the institutional mechanisms required to embed evaluation within governance structures, including national evaluation frameworks, dedicated units, and integrated data systems. Building on this, the discussion will highlight approaches to strengthening data ecosystems and promoting the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods to generate context-rich insights. The session will also seek to identify practical strategies for enhancing the uptake of evaluation findings to support mid-course corrections, improve accountability, and drive policy effectiveness. In doing so, it will facilitate cross-country learning on institutionalising evaluation within decision-making processes and fostering a culture of evidence based policy making.

Speakers:

• Dr. Emmanuel Jimenez, Director General, Independent Evaluation Department at Asian Development Bank
• Ms. Shobhini Mukerji, Executive Director, J-PAL South Asia
• Mr. Ashwani Muthoo, Director General, Independent Evaluation Office, New Development Bank
• Ms. Megan Grace Kennedy-Chouane, Head of Evaluation Unit, OECD Development Co- operation Directorate
• Ms. Ashley Wax, Regional Evaluation Advisor, UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office

Chair:

• Ms. Nidhi Chhibber, CEO, NITI Aayog & DG DMEO