Empowering Civil Society: The C-PET Workshop Initiative

Empowering Civil Society: The C-PET Workshop Initiative

The significance of professional development for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the dynamic realm of civil society cannot be overstated. Acknowledging this need, the CSR-in-Action School of Corporate Citizenship (CSCS) and Access Bank collaborated to establish the CSO Professionalism and Effectiveness Therapy (C-PET) Workshop in September 2015. The objective of this effort is to provide Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve their efficacy and influence on sustainable development.

What is the C-PET Workshop?

The C-PET Workshop is a comprehensive training program designed to address the challenges faced by CSOs in Nigeria. Through a series of interactive sessions and practical exercises, the Workshop focuses on critical areas such as:

  • Strategic Planning: Helping organisations develop clear, actionable plans that align with their missions and objectives.
  • Implementation Strategies: Equipping participants with tools and methodologies to effectively execute their programs and initiatives.
  • Financing and Fundraising: Providing insights into sustainable funding strategies and diversifying revenue streams.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Teaching best practices for assessing the impact of programs and ensuring accountability.
  • Professional Writing and Communication: Enhancing skills in effective communication, report writing, and advocacy.

To date, approximately 920 participants from various regions of Nigeria have benefitted from this transformative training, with interest also emerging from CSOs across the African continent.

Who Benefits from the Training?

The C-PET Workshop is available to registered CSOs and NGOs in Nigeria at no cost. By removing financial barriers, this initiative encourages a diverse range of organisations to participate, fostering an inclusive environment for learning and collaboration. The workshop employs a train-the-trainers approach, enabling participants to share their knowledge and skills with other CSOs, thereby multiplying the benefits of the training throughout the sector.

The Role of CSOs in Sustainable Development

CSOs are increasingly recognised as essential agents for sustainable development. They operate as the “third” sector, complementing government and market efforts by promoting good governance principles, including:

  • Transparency: Ensuring that operations and decision-making processes are open and accessible to stakeholders.
  • Effectiveness: Implementing programs that achieve intended outcomes and make a measurable impact.
  • Openness and responsiveness: Engaging with communities and responding to their needs and concerns.
  • Accountability: Upholding standards and being answerable to stakeholders for their actions and decisions.

Despite their critical role, CSOs in Nigeria have faced numerous challenges over the years. A report by the Nigerian Network of NGOs (NNNGO) identifies key areas where organisations struggle, including strategic planning, implementation, financing, monitoring, and professional communication. The C-PET Workshop aims to address these challenges directly, empowering CSOs to overcome obstacles and fulfil their missions more effectively.

The C-PET Workshop is a vital initiative that seeks to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of CSOs in Nigeria. By providing free, high-quality training, it addresses the pressing challenges these organisations face and empowers them to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development. As more CSOs engage in this program, the potential for creating a culture of excellence in civil society grows, ultimately benefiting communities and stakeholders across the nation.

To register for C-PET click here

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