Join PDA to learn, share, and collaborate on building more ethical, effective development programs through responsible data use.
In an era where data fuels better programs, sharper insights, and stronger accountability, safeguarding the privacy and rights of communities, especially the most vulnerable, has never been more essential. Participatory Development Associates (PDA) is leading the way by embedding robust data protection practices across its MERL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning) work and community-led programming. Now, PDA invites you to a practical, field-tested webinar that translates these protections into actionable steps for development practitioners.
What you’ll gain from the webinar
- Practical, field-tested data protection approaches:
Learn the concrete systems PDA uses to safeguard participant information without stifling learning or decision-making.
Discover how data protection integrates into MERL processes from design through dissemination. - Ethical risk awareness in community data collection:
Understand the unique risks that arise when working with communities and vulnerable populations.
Explore strategies to minimise harm while maximising ethical integrity and learning. - How strong data governance builds trust and program quality:
See how privacy, consent, and security practices boost participant trust, engagement, and outcomes.
Learn how responsible data use correlates with higher-quality evidence and accountability. - Simple, adoptable tools and practices:
Access ready-to-use tools, checklists, and workflows that fit resource-constrained environments.
Get guidance on integrating data protection into existing programs without overhauling operations. - Cross-partner learning:
Connect with peers in research, MEL, and community programming to share lessons, challenges, and solutions.
About PDA’s approach
PDA has developed a holistic approach to data protection that aligns with ethical research and community-centered development. Drawing from field experiences across multiple projects and sectors, PDA has implemented practical safeguards that protect participant information while enabling meaningful learning and accountability. This webinar distils those lessons into accessible practices you can apply in your own contexts.
Who should attend
- Development practitioners involved in research, MEL, monitoring, or learning activities.
- project managers and program designers seeking practical data protection tools.
- researchers and evaluators who work with personal or sensitive data, including community-level information.
- partners and donors interested in improving data governance and ethical research practices.
Event details
Title: Protecting People by Protecting Data: Practical Lessons from PDA’s Work in Ethical Research and MEL
Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM (UTC+00:00)
Location: Online webinar
We look forward to seeing you there.