Post by Anasse Aissami

I was honored to open the International Program for Development Evaluation Training (IPDET) at IsDB/HQ Jeddah. This is a truly historic occasion as we continue this prestigious program in our region. I congratulate all the participants attending the IPDET, for being part of the history in the making. Besides participants from IsDB, we have four participants from the Saudi Fund for Development, the Ministry of Economy and Planning of KSA, and the Ministry of HR and Social Development of the KSA. We also have 11 very special participants who have traveled all the way to Jeddah from different IsDB Regional Hubs. It would not have been possible for us to host the IPDET here in IsDB HQ without the enormous support extended by Prof. Dr. Reinhard Stockmann and Dr. Dr. Stefanie Krapp , two giants of Evaluation from the Academia. In the business of development, Evaluation is the bedrock of informed decision-making, as it helps ensure our development endeavors are not just well-intentioned but also relevant, effective, efficient, coherent, and sustainable. In the face of increasing global development challenges, the demand for skilled evaluators has increased more than ever. The facilitation of IPDET to the Middle East represents a significant stride in our collective journey toward nurturing expertise in Evaluation in this region. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the IeVD Department and all those who have worked tirelessly to bring IPDET to the IsDB. Let us embrace this new chapter with zeal and firm commitment, for it is through education and collaboration that we will lay the foundations for a more prosperous and sustainable future for everyone. Throughout this program, participants will have an opportunity to experience the power of collaboration, teamwork and networking that transcends institutional boundaries. Good luck and I would like to once again extend my heartfelt wishes to all participants to have a successful and enriching experience during this training!