NCFA, Shamil Project conclude 3-day workshop on evidence-based policies

AMMAN — The National Council for Family Affairs (NCFA) and the Shamil project, implemented by Development Pathways and funded by the UK government, have successfully concluded a three-day national workshop focused on evidence-based policymaking. 

The workshop aimed to identify national priorities on family issues and enhance collaboration between researchers and policymakers to ensure the stability and well-being of Jordanian families, according to an NCFA statement. 

Assistant Secretary-General for Technical Affairs at NCFA Mohammad Zoubi stressed that the workshop was a key outcome of the project supporting evidence-based policies through capacity building. 

This initiative, jointly implemented by NCFA and the Shamil programme, is part of a memorandum of understanding between the two entities to develop an action plan informed by the Jordanian Family Status Report and its indicators. 

Prepared by NCFA in 2024, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the status of Jordanian families across various health, demographic, educational, social and economic dimensions.

The workshop brought together members of the technical committee, which includes 35 representatives from government and non-government institutions, universities, and civil society organisations.

Participants represented the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation, National Aid Fund, Balqa Applied University, Public Security Directorate, Hashemite University, and Al Thuraya Centre for Studies, among others.

The workshop delved into core concepts of evidence-based policymaking and its significance, according to the statement. 

Participants explored leading international experiences, examined key national and global indicators, and discussed the role of civil society organisations and academics in shaping and supporting research priorities and national policies. 

The workshop concluded with a strategic roadmap outlining the next steps for implementation.