Recommendations

Key recommendations for the macro level include:

• Re-run the writing training programme – the major work for the programme has been done, and the benefits could be spread to other staff members.
• Develop a follow-up course with a focus on analytical and report writing skills, as a consolidation of basic skills already learnt and which is applicable to writing challenges that staff face in their workplace.
• Strengthen analytical skills and ability to identify lessons learnt within the field through ongoing workshops focussed on specific sectoral issues and themes.
• Develop strategies to identify and share lessons learnt within The Mvula Trust – publication of stories in The Mvula Trust publications is a starting point; it needs to be taken further (link with Policy Unit over lessons sharing).
• Do not place major emphasis on attempting to influence policy, (this is a task for the entire organisation, in particular those working with policy), but rather feed into an overall advocacy strategy.
• Make the Facilitator’s Guide available on The Mvula Trust web site.
• Resources to develop repositories should only be committed when the purpose and target audience of the repositories are clearly identified – the stories and documentation from this programme do not justify a separate internet repository.
• Implement a mutually beneficial peer-mentoring programme by teaming up field workers (trainee writers) with staff working on policy issues.