The National Information Platform for Nutrition (NIPN) project conducted an intensive training on data and policy analysis for Oudomxay and Phongsaly provinces from November 18 -22, 2024. Hosted at the Department of Planning and Investment in Oudomxay Province, the training brought together key representatives from the health, education, agriculture, and planning sectors.
The opening remarks were chaired and co-chaired by Ms. Maly Phanyasak, Deputy Director of the Oudomxay Department of Planning and Investment and Mr. Viengkone Buaphachanh, Director of the Division from the Development Research Institute, Ministry of Planning and Investment. Over the course of five days, participants delved into crucial topics including:
- Overview of NIPN project’s roles at national and subnational levels
- Goals and objectives
- Data management and analysis techniques
- Monitoring and evaluation frameworks
- Nutrition issues identification
- Evidence-based planning strategies
The training placed a strong emphasis on practical applications. Participants honed their skills in using tools like Excel for analyzing sector-specific data to identify and address nutrition-related issues. They also learned how to leverage analysis results for crafting policy recommendations.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Sitthiroth Rasphone, Director General of the Development Research Institute, reiterated the training’s significance and urged participants to apply their newly acquired skills in their respective roles. He stressed the need for enhanced coordination among sectors, particularly between the NIPN secretariat and provincial technical teams, to ensure successful implementation of nutrition-focused activities.
This capacity-building initiative marks a significant step towards improving nutrition outcomes in the northern region, particularly in Oudomxay and Phongsaly provinces. By enhancing data analysis capabilities and promoting evidence-based policy planning at the sub-national level, the NIPN project aims to drive meaningful change in addressing nutrition challenges.