Course Details

Amplifying Voices for Change: Advocacy & Policy Influence for NGOs Training Course

INTRODUCTION

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in addressing societal challenges, and effective advocacy is crucial for translating their on-the-ground experience into meaningful policy change. Our comprehensive Advocacy & Policy Influence for NGOs Training Course equips participants with the strategic skills and practical tools to effectively engage with policymakers, mobilize support, and influence decisions at local, national, and international levels. From understanding policy processes and crafting compelling messages to building strategic alliances and navigating the political landscape, this program empowers NGOs to amplify the voices of the communities they serve and drive impactful social change through policy influence.

Designed for NGO leaders, program managers, advocacy officers, and communication specialists, this training addresses the critical need for strategic advocacy in achieving organizational missions. Participants will learn how to analyze policy environments, develop targeted advocacy strategies, engage with diverse stakeholders, and measure the impact of their advocacy efforts. By mastering these skills, graduates will be able to position their NGOs as influential actors in shaping policy debates, ultimately leading to more favorable policies that advance their goals and benefit the populations they work with.

DURATION

5 days

TARGET AUDIENCE

• NGO Leaders and Executive Directors
• Advocacy Managers and Officers
• Program Managers involved in policy engagement
• Communications and Public Relations Staff
• Policy Analysts and Researchers
• Board Members responsible for advocacy oversight
• Individuals seeking to develop their advocacy skills within the NGO sector

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the policy-making process and identify key opportunities for influence.
• Develop effective advocacy strategies aligned with organizational goals and values.
• Craft compelling messages and communicate effectively with policymakers and the public.
• Build and maintain strategic alliances and partnerships for advocacy.
• Utilize various advocacy tools and tactics, including lobbying and public campaigns.
• Navigate the political landscape and understand power dynamics.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of advocacy efforts.
• Develop ethical and responsible advocacy practices.

COURSE MODULES

Module 1: Understanding the Policy Landscape:

• Introduction to policy analysis and the policy-making process.
• Identifying key actors and institutions involved in policy decisions.
• Understanding different levels of policy influence (local, national, international).
• Analyzing the political context and power dynamics.
• Identifying opportunities and challenges for NGO policy engagement.

Module 2: Developing Effective Advocacy Strategies:

• Defining advocacy goals and objectives aligned with organizational mission.
• Identifying target audiences and key decision-makers.
• Conducting stakeholder mapping and power analysis.
• Selecting appropriate advocacy strategies and tactics.
• Developing a clear theory of change for advocacy efforts.

Module 3: Crafting Compelling Advocacy Messages:

• Understanding the principles of effective communication for policy influence.
• Developing clear, concise, and persuasive key messages.
• Tailoring messages to different audiences.
• Utilizing storytelling and evidence effectively.
• Communicating through various channels, including traditional and digital media.

Module 4: Building Strategic Alliances and Partnerships:

• Identifying potential allies and partners for advocacy efforts.
• Developing strategies for building and maintaining strong relationships.
• Understanding the benefits and challenges of collaboration.
• Negotiating and managing partnerships effectively.
• Working with coalitions and networks for greater impact.

Module 5: Utilizing Advocacy Tools and Tactics:

• Understanding different advocacy tools, including lobbying and direct engagement.
• Developing and implementing public awareness campaigns.
• Utilizing media advocacy to shape public opinion.
• Mobilizing grassroots support and engaging communities.
• Leveraging online advocacy and digital platforms.

Module 6: Navigating the Political Landscape:

• Understanding political systems and government structures.
• Identifying political opportunities and constraints.
• Building relationships with political actors and policymakers.
• Navigating political sensitivities and potential opposition.
• Understanding lobbying regulations and ethical considerations.

Module 7: Monitoring and Evaluating Advocacy Impact:

• Developing indicators to measure advocacy success.
• Tracking advocacy activities and outputs.
• Assessing the outcomes and impact of policy influence efforts.
• Utilizing evaluation findings to improve future advocacy strategies.
• Reporting on advocacy achievements to stakeholders.

Module 8: Ethical and Responsible Advocacy:

• Understanding ethical considerations in advocacy practice.
• Adhering to principles of transparency and accountability.
• Avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining integrity.
• Respecting diverse perspectives and engaging in constructive dialogue.
• Promoting responsible use of information and evidence in advocacy.

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

• Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com