An Overview
This course is designed to introduce participants to the fundamental concepts and techniques of project planning and management. Whether you are a novice or an experienced professional, this course will enhance your ability to lead and contribute to successful projects. Through a combination of theoretical principles and practical applications, participants will gain insights into project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, evaluation and closure. By the end of this training, participants will be equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to effectively manage projects and contribute to the success of their organizations.
Target Audience
- Graduate students, faculty members, NGO project managers, business professionals, and entrepreneurs.
- Individuals involved in research, community development, and organizational planning.
Training Objectives
- Equip participants with knowledge of project planning, implementation, and evaluation.
- Introduce practical tools such as Logical Framework Approach (LFA), Gantt Charts, and Risk Analysis Matrix.
- Enhance participants’ capacity to design, manage, and evaluate projects effectively.
Day 1: Fundamentals of Project Planning
Session 1: Introduction to Project Planning (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
- Definition of a project and its lifecycle
- Difference between projects, programs, and activities
- Key components of a Project Proposal
Session 2: Problem Identification and Needs Assessment (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)
- Conducting a situational analysis
- Using tools like SWOT and PESTLE analysis
- Stakeholder mapping and engagement
Session 3: Setting Goals, Objectives, and Indicators (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Developing SMART project objectives
- Defining outputs, outcomes, and impact
- Understanding Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Activity: Group exercise on defining project goals and objectives
Day 2: Project Design and Implementation
Session 4: Project Work Breakdown and Scheduling (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
- Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
- Developing a Gantt Chart for project scheduling
Session 5: Resource Planning and Budgeting (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)
- Identifying project costs (fixed, variable, direct, indirect)
- Preparing a Project Budget Matrix
- Financial resource mobilization strategies
Session 6: Risk Management and Mitigation Strategies (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Identifying project risks and uncertainties
- Developing a Risk Analysis Matrix
- Contingency planning and mitigation strategies
Activity: Develop a simple Gantt chart and Risk Matrix
Day 3: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (M&E)
Session 7: Project Monitoring and Control (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
- Importance of Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E)
- Developing an M&E framework
- Data collection techniques for tracking progress
Session 8: Project Reporting and Documentation (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)
- Writing progress reports, final project reports, and impact reports
- Best practices in documentation and accountability
Session 9: Project Closure and Lessons Learned (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Conducting project evaluation
- Capturing lessons learned and best practices
- Preparing for post-project sustainability
Final Activity: Team presentations on a mini-project proposal
Training Methodology
- Lectures & Presentations – Concept introduction and case studies
- Group Discussions – Sharing experiences and peer learning
- Practical Exercises – Hands-on activities with real-life scenarios
- Q&A and Feedback Sessions – Open discussions and expert guidance
Certification
Participants who successfully complete the 3-day training in Project Planning and Management will be awarded a Certificate of Participation in Fundamentals of Project Planning and Management, issued by the Higher Institute of Applied Learning (HIAL). This certification recognizes the participant’s commitment to acquiring essential project planning and management skills,
Training Application