Data Analytics and Storytelling for Development

Data analytics and knowledge management for development (blended) (NEW)

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.
  • ICT and Innovation Specialists – interested in leveraging big data and AI tools for development challenges.
Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  1. Understand the foundations of data in development contexts.
  2. Navigate the development data ecosystem and governance challenges.
  3. Apply quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and analysis.
  4. Use data visualization and storytelling techniques for decision-making and advocacy.
  5. Explore the potential of big data and AI for development impact.
  6. Develop actionable outputs such as data management plans and project-level analytics strategies.
Why should I join?

The certification programme is organised in a blended modality. It includes a distance-learning phase followed by a one-week workshop in Turin on the United Nations Campus under the umbrella of the Development Cooperation Academy. Once participants have completed the workshop, they will then work remotely with the assistance of an expert on a final project and receive their certification. The entire programme consists of approximately 60 hours of learning. 

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