JOOUST VLIR-IUC Programme brought together project team leaders, team members, the Programme Support Unit and the University Management Board for a joint writeshop aimed at strengthening project reporting, consolidating evidence and preparing for the Programme’s mid-term evaluation scheduled for mid-October 2026. The writeshop provided a platform for the various project teams to reflect on progress made during the 4 years of implementation, review achievements and identify key areas requiring attention as the Programme moves into Phase II. A major focus of the engagement was the validation of its Year 4 Annual Progress Report, ensuring that the achievements and activities undertaken by the different sub-projects are accurately documented. Participants were also expected to consolidate supporting evidence that will inform the upcoming mid-term evaluation. Another key component of the writeshop was the preparation and validation of Year 5 work plans and budgets. The sub-project teams had the opportunity to review their planned activities and align them with the Project’s objectives to ensure effective implementation and resource utilization in year 5. The meeting brought together teams working across different sub-project areas. The sessions covered areas such as natural resources management, transformative agri-food systems, Research in and prevention of communicable/non-communicable diseases, ICT, teaching and learning, and climate-change resilience. The engagement also provided an opportunity for project teams to exchange experiences, collectively review their progress and strengthen coordination across the different sub-projects of the IUC. In addition to technical discussions, sessions dedicated to reviewing evidences, preparation for the mid-term evaluation and consolidation of the achievements and lessons emerging from the implementation of the projects were included. The Local Coordinator, Prof. Denis Ochuodho, was present to coordinate the engagement, while the respective sub-project team leaders guided their respective sessions.
