Decolonising national evaluation systems

This article, by Ian Goldman, Candice Morkel, Edoé D. Agbodjan & Thokozile G. Molaiwa, argues that evaluation has a significant role in helping guide a regenerative future, but to succeed evaluation systems must be transformative and holistic.

The study carried out a constructive critical analysis of the National Evaluation Systems (NESs) of South Africa and Benin. The authors found that these NESs "have embedded learning, exhibit both machine-based and ecological-based elements, and experience some decolonised aspects".

In conclusion, the study argued for the following:

1. "Allowing NESs to break from historical forms of bureaucratic functioning;
2. Developing a systems-based approach as the basis for new thinking around NESs, strengthening their ecological aspects;
3. Embracing the learning approaches we see in both countries;
4. Embracing principles of participatory democracy and co-production by strengthening the voice of non-state actors, particularly citizens, in the formation of NESs and;
5. Changing power dynamics, in NESs and evaluations."