The Centre for International Training and Executive Development (CITED) recently conducted a three day training course for RCMRD staff. Prof. Dr.-Ing. John Bosco Kyalo Kiema the Director, Technical Services at the RCMRD gave key note remarks noting that this was the third training this year for RCMRD staff. “I am happy that we are having this training on project management that will ostensibly equip our staff skills to implement projects effectively and efficiently.”
He reminded staff that the RCMRD aspires to be a premier centre of excellence in the provision of geo-information for sustainable development in the 20 member States and beyond and thus the way in which staff implement projects should be outstanding. “Even as we make demands to staff to produce better results, management has a responsibility to train and equip staff with adequate skills,” he added, knowledge and skills acquisition are important. “I have never seen or heard of someone who has constipated on knowledge. Engage with the facilitators and improve your skills and manage projects effectively and efficiently.”
The three day course provided an introduction to the principles and skills of effective project management. It took participants through the stages of the life cycle of a project from initiation to completion and evaluation. It was intended for staff who have a clear remit to achieve specific objectives with clearly-defined start and end points, which are separate from ongoing day-to-day activities. The range and scale of projects that participants manage may be wide.
The objectives were to enable staff be aware of what a project is; appreciate the role of the project manager; identify the basic principles and techniques of project management; apply techniques of project planning, scheduling; budgeting and risk assessment. The training also emphasized the need for project communication throughout the project life cycle. It also focused on identifying the project stakeholders and understanding ways of managing the relationship with them at different points of the project life cycle. Mary Nderi, Marietta Stephen & Leonard Nyamai were the facilitators for the three days (July 12 to 14). Staff received certificates of participation after successfully completing the three day course. See photos here
This article is written by Dorah Nesoba (Communications and Outreach Expert at RCMRD/SERVIR E&SA)
Photo credits: Gerald Omondi, Webmaster, RCMRD