The Jobberman Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Fellowship Programme – Cohort 3 is inviting applications from young and early-career professionals interested in developing practical expertise in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning. The 12-week capacity-building programme is designed for individuals aged 18 to 35 who want to strengthen their technical competencies and build careers in the development and social impact sector.
The fellowship combines structured training with practical assignments, mentorship, collaborative learning, and exposure to real-world development projects. Participants will have opportunities to build the knowledge and skills required to support evidence-based programmes and contribute effectively to development initiatives across Africa.
About the MERL Fellowship
Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning plays a critical role in understanding whether development programmes are achieving their intended results. The Jobberman MERL Fellowship is designed to give participants both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in this growing professional field.
Over the course of 12 weeks, fellows will participate in self-paced online courses, live virtual classes, expert-led mentorship sessions, group assignments, case studies, and supervised field activities. This blended learning approach is intended to help participants apply concepts in practical settings rather than relying solely on classroom-based instruction.
The programme covers key areas of MERL practice, including programme monitoring, evaluation approaches, research methods, data collection, data analysis, reporting, evidence generation, and organisational learning.
Skills and Experience Fellows Will Gain
Participants will develop practical competencies that can support careers in development organisations, non-governmental organisations, research institutions, consulting, social enterprises, and other organisations that rely on evidence and data for decision-making.
Through the fellowship, participants will gain exposure to:
- Monitoring and evaluation frameworks and methodologies
- Research design and implementation
- Data collection and analysis
- Programme performance tracking
- Reporting and documentation
- Evidence-based decision-making
- Learning systems and knowledge management
- Practical field research and assignments
- Real-world development case studies and capstone projects
The programme also places emphasis on professional development. Fellows will strengthen their leadership, communication, critical-thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, while learning about ethical standards and recognised industry practices within the development sector.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful participants will receive several opportunities designed to support both immediate skills development and longer-term career growth.
Fellows will receive practical MERL training combined with supervised field experience and will learn directly from experienced professionals and industry experts. They will also participate in collaborative case studies and capstone projects that can provide experience with practical development challenges.
Each fellow will receive structured mentorship throughout the programme, helping participants connect their training with career goals and professional expectations.
Upon successful completion of the fellowship, participants will receive a Jobberman MERL Fellowship Certificate. Graduates will also become part of the Jobberman MERL Alumni Network, providing a platform for continued learning, professional networking, and career development.
Eligibility and Target Participants
The fellowship is designed for aspiring and early-career development professionals between 18 and 35 years of age who are passionate about Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning.
The opportunity is particularly relevant to individuals seeking to establish or advance careers involving programme management, research, evaluation, data, development practice, and social impact.
The application form indicates that the programme is open to applicants from several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Liberia, The Gambia, and Sierra Leone, with an option to select another nationality.
Applicants may also be asked to provide information relating to gender, age, residence, mobility, and accessibility needs as part of the expression of interest process. This information forms part of the fellowship’s application and inclusion process.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form and provide the information requested by Jobberman. Applicants should ensure that the details submitted are accurate and complete.
The application process includes questions relating to personal information, nationality, age range, current residence, and other relevant demographic and accessibility information. Applicants should carefully review each question before submitting the form.
As the fellowship involves online learning, live virtual sessions, mentorship, group collaboration, and field assignments, applicants should be prepared to actively participate throughout the full 12-week programme.
Why the Fellowship Matters
The demand for professionals who can generate, interpret, and apply reliable evidence continues to grow across Africa’s development sector. Strong MERL systems enable organisations to assess programme performance, understand outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions.
By combining technical instruction, practical experience, mentorship, and networking, the Jobberman MERL Fellowship provides participants with an opportunity to build competencies that can strengthen their employability and contribute to evidence-driven development.
Interested individuals who meet the age and programme requirements are encouraged to review the Expression of Interest form carefully and submit their applications through the official Jobberman process.
