Data Analytics and Storytelling for Development
Data Analytics and Storytelling for Development
8 June–24 July 2026
The course is available in English
Introduction to the course
Data is at the heart of today's development agenda. The rapid expansion of digital technologies, big data, and artificial intelligence is reshaping how organizations design, implement, and evaluate programmes and policies. Yet, data alone is not enough - the true challenge lies in transforming complex information into knowledge, insights, and stories that inspire action. This course prepares development professionals to navigate this evolving landscape. It provides a future-oriented learning journey that combines data foundations, analytics methods, and visualization techniques with the art of data storytelling. Participants will gain hands-on experience in collecting and analysing qualitative and quantitative data, designing impactful dashboards, and using evidence to inform strategies, communicate with stakeholders, and create measurable impact. Tailored for programme and project managers, monitoring and evaluation officers, technical specialists, researchers, and professionals across the development sector, the course emphasizes practical application and future readiness. From understanding the development data ecosystem to exploring the role of big data and AI, learners will build the capacity to translate data into decisions, and decisions into sustainable change. By the end of the course, participants will not only master essential data skills but also develop the ability to tell the story behind the numbers - a critical competence for shaping policies, strengthening organizations, and advancing development in a fast-changing world.
Who attends this course?
This course is designed for professionals engaged in the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of development programmes and projects, including: - Programme and Project Managers - seeking to strengthen evidence-based planning and decision-making. - Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialists - looking to apply advanced analytics and visualization in reporting and adaptive management. - Knowledge and Data Officers - responsible for turning raw data into actionable insights and strategies. - Policy Analysts and Technical Specialists - involved in shaping development interventions using evidence. - Researchers and Academics - working on data-driven studies in social and economic development. - Private Sector and Social Enterprise Professionals - supporting development cooperation, CSR, or impact-driven projects.
What will I learn?
- Understand the foundations of data in development contexts.
- Navigate the development data ecosystem and governance challenges.
- Apply quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and analysis.
- Use data visualization and storytelling techniques for decision-making and advocacy.
- Explore the potential of big data and AI for development impact.
- Develop actionable outputs such as data management plans and project-level analytics strategies.
What topics does this course cover?
This course introduces core concepts, methods, and tools that help development professionals use data more effectively in their daily work. Topics include:
- Data, Information, and Evidence in Development
Understanding how data supports evidence-based decision-making in development programmes and projects. - The Development Data Ecosystem
An overview of common data sources, data types, quality considerations, ethics, and governance in development contexts. - Data Collection and Management
Practical approaches to collecting and organizing qualitative and quantitative data, including surveys, interviews, and administrative data. - Introduction to Data Analytics for Development
Applying basic analytical approaches to explore data, identify patterns, and support programme monitoring and evaluation. - Qualitative and Quantitative Data Analysis
Understanding how qualitative and quantitative methods can be used separately and together to generate meaningful insights. - Data Visualization and Storytelling
Learning how to present data clearly using visualizations and simple narratives tailored to different audiences. - Big Data and New Data Sources: An Introduction
Exploring emerging data sources and their potential use in development, including opportunities and limitations. - Looking Ahead: AI and the Future of Data in Development
An introductory look at how artificial intelligence and advanced analytics are influencing development practice, with attention to responsible use.
What will I be able to do?
Participants who successfully complete the course will be able to:
- Better understand how data is used across the development project and programme lifecycle.
- Assess basic data needs and data gaps in their own projects or organizations.
- Design a simple data management and analysis plan for a programme or project.
- Apply quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques to real-world development data.
- Create clear and effective data visualizations to support reporting and communication.
- Use basic data storytelling techniques to explain findings to colleagues and stakeholders.
- Identify potential opportunities to use new data sources and AI-enabled tools, with a realistic understanding of their benefits and limitations.
Why should I join?
This certification programme is delivered in a blended learning format, combining distance learning with an in-person learning experience. It includes an online phase followed by a one-week workshop in Turin at the United Nations Campus, as part of the 2026 Development Cooperation Academy.
For more information on the Academy please click on the following link
After the workshop, participants complete a final project with remote expert support before receiving their certification.
The programme represents approximately 70 hours of learning over seven weeks and is designed to be practical and manageable alongside professional commitments.
By joining this course, you will:
- Build practical and realistic data skills that you can apply immediately in your work.
- Improve your confidence in understanding, analysing, and communicating data.
- Learn how to use data more effectively for programme planning, monitoring, reporting, and learning.
- Become familiar with current tools and emerging trends in data analytics, including big data and AI, without requiring advanced technical expertise.
- Learn alongside a diverse, international group of professionals, creating opportunities for peer learning and professional networking.
What certification will I get as a successful candidate?
Upon successful completion of the Academy, participants receive a Certificate of Achievement in their chosen discipline.
This certificate shows that you have fulfilled all assignments, knowledge tests and other prerequisites to a minimum standard.
The complete effort amounts to 70 hours of learning.
The certificate is a digital certificate which is protected by block-chain technology and can be displayed on social media.
The certifications form part of the ITCILO Diploma for Development Cooperation Specialists:
