Flow-nalytics: A Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Capacity Assessment of a Menstrual Health Education Organization

This capstone project explored the monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) capacities of an organization in Colombia that promotes comprehensive menstrual education. The current contexts surrounding menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM) globally and in Colombia, the relevant policy environment and the MEL context of MHHM were featured prominently in the literature review. Concepts such as feminist pedagogy theory and the term “empowerment” were also explored. The project methodology consisted of a desk review, facilitated discussions and observed workshops with the organization founder, which used the pseudonym, Tenara. In collaboration with the organization’s founder, the author identified various findings, challenges and recommendations for the organization from these activities. These included revising the theory of change narrative and identifying challenges and opportunities for Tenara to strengthen its MEL capacity. Unexpected insights and blind spots for Tenara and challenges encountered while working with MEL assessment tools for this project were also identified. Key recommendations included that the founder engage in further exploration and research on MEL practices, defines a program strategy, conducts further research for cultivating safe spaces, and incorporates important stakeholders in the organization’s MEL strategy. Tenara should also continue its development and adaptation of MEL products such as the suggested revised theory of change narrative and visual and logical framework. The findings and recommendations contribute to the field of MEL in relation to menstrual health education and menstrual health management programs. Additionally, this project contributed to Tenara’s continued learning and understanding of MEL concepts and how they can be applied to Tenara. Keywords: Comprehensive menstrual health education, Women and girl's rights, Monitoring evaluation and learning, MEL, Menstruation, Colombia, Menstrual health and hygiene management