Eclipse Global Consult has commenced an intensive training programme for Research Assistants who will support the Midterm Evaluation of the Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA) funded project being implemented by GOAL Sierra Leone in partnership with The Energy Nexus Network (TENN) and the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL). The evaluation will assess the progress and effectiveness of the “Enhanced Resilience of Rural Communities through Women-Led Conservation, Financial Inclusion, and Livelihood Diversification” programme being implemented in Western Area Rural and Kambia Districts.

The training is designed to equip field researchers with the knowledge, skills, and tools required to collect high-quality data that will inform the project’s midterm assessment. Participants are receiving practical instruction on quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, ethical data collection practices, mobile data collection systems, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and household survey techniques.

The JOA programme seeks to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities to climate-related shocks through environmental conservation, improved financial inclusion, sustainable livelihoods, and enhanced food and nutrition security. Key interventions include mangrove restoration and protection, support to small-scale fisheries, increased access to finance, and the promotion of alternative income-generating opportunities, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable groups.

Through this evaluation, GOAL Sierra Leone aims to assess progress against programme objectives, identify implementation challenges, review the effectiveness of monitoring and learning systems, and generate evidence-based recommendations for the remaining implementation period. The findings will contribute to improved programme delivery, strengthened community resilience, and sustainable development outcomes in the target communities.

Eclipse Global Consult remains committed to delivering a credible, independent, and high-quality evaluation process that supports learning, accountability, and impact for communities benefiting from the JOA programme across Sierra Leone.