In today’s data-driven world, public health decisions are only as strong as the evidence that informs them. Behind every maternal health policy, vaccination strategy, or health facility reform lies a foundation of carefully designed surveys, scientifically selected samples, and rigorous statistical methods. Without strong survey methodology and sampling expertise, even the most well-intentioned policies risk being built on weak evidence.
Recognizing this critical need, Ethiopia Performance Monitoring for Action (EPMA) at Addis Ababa University (AAU), in collaboration with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), is organizing a high-level Health Survey Methodology and Sampling Workshop from March 23–27, 2026, in Addis Ababa.
This workshop is more than just training. It is a strategic investment in strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity to generate reliable, nationally representative data—especially in the vital area of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (RMNCH).
In this blog post, we explore why this workshop matters, what participants will gain, and how it fits into the broader vision of improving public health research and policy in Ethiopia and beyond.
Why Survey Methodology and Sampling Matter More Than Ever
Public health surveys are powerful tools. They shape national strategies, guide funding allocation, and influence long-term health system reforms. However, conducting a nationally representative survey is not a simple task. It requires:
- Scientifically sound sampling strategies
- Accurate sample size estimation
- Well-designed survey instruments
- Effective field implementation
- Robust data linkage and analysis
Poorly designed surveys can lead to biased results, underrepresentation of key populations, and incorrect policy conclusions. For example, underestimating sample size can result in insufficient statistical power to detect critical health disparities. On the other hand, overestimating sample size can inflate costs unnecessarily.
In countries like Ethiopia—where diverse geographic, cultural, and socio-economic contexts shape health outcomes—advanced sampling strategies are essential to ensure inclusiveness and accuracy.
This workshop addresses precisely these challenges.
About EPMA: Building a National Platform for Evidence-Based Health Policy
The Ethiopia Performance Monitoring for Action (EPMA) is a nationally owned survey platform designed to generate high-quality, policy-relevant data on RMNCH indicators. It operates under Addis Ababa University’s School of Public Health, in collaboration with:
- Ministry of Health
- Ethiopian Statistical Service
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)
The initiative receives financial support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and aims to strengthen evidence generation and translation in Ethiopia and East Africa.
EPMA conducts both:
- Cross-sectional surveys (to assess health indicators at a given time)
- Longitudinal cohort surveys (to track changes over time)
The ultimate goal is not just data collection—but meaningful data use. EPMA aspires to establish a Center for RMNCH survey research and translation in East Africa, integrating:
- MSc and PhD curricula
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programs
- Specialized workshops
The Health Survey Methodology and Sampling Workshop is a key component of this long-term vision.
Workshop Overview: What to Expect
📅 Training Dates:
March 23–27, 2026
📍 Venue:
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
🗓 Registration:
February 10–24, 2026
💰 Training Fee:
USD 1,000 per participant
The fee covers:
- Full boarding (lodging, meals, refreshments)
- Certificate of accomplishment
- Intensive hands-on training
Scholarships are available on a competitive basis for a limited number of applicants.
Only 20 trainees will be admitted, ensuring an interactive, high-quality learning environment.
What Makes This Workshop Unique?
Many workshops introduce theoretical concepts of sampling. Few take participants from instrument development all the way to advanced sampling design using real-world case studies.
This workshop stands out because it:
- Uses EPMA surveys as real-life examples
- Covers both population-based and facility-based survey sampling
- Teaches basic and advanced sample size estimation using Stata
- Emphasizes cost-efficient sampling methods
- Integrates theory with practical application
Participants will not just learn formulas—they will understand how to apply them in actual survey contexts.
Core Competencies You Will Gain
1. Foundations of Survey Planning and Tool Design
Before sampling begins, clear objectives must be defined. Participants will learn how to:
- Translate policy questions into measurable indicators
- Design structured survey instruments
- Ensure tool validity and reliability
- Align survey design with sampling strategy
Survey tool development is often overlooked in methodology training. This workshop places it at the foundation of the process.
2. Sampling Strategies for Representative Surveys
Achieving national representativeness requires careful selection techniques, such as:
- Multi-stage cluster sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Probability proportional to size (PPS)
- Random selection methods
Participants will explore when and why to use each method, and how to adjust sampling designs for different geographic and demographic contexts.
3. Basic Sample Size Estimation Using Stata
Accurate sample size estimation ensures sufficient statistical power. The training will cover:
- Estimating sample size for proportions
- Adjusting for design effect
- Considering non-response rates
- Multi-indicator survey planning
Hands-on Stata exercises will allow participants to calculate sample sizes under various scenarios.
4. Advanced Sample Size Estimation
For complex national surveys, advanced considerations are essential:
- Multi-level sampling adjustments
- Facility-based survey design
- Longitudinal cohort sample estimation
- Subgroup analysis requirements
Participants will learn how to balance statistical rigor with cost efficiency.
5. Cost-Effective Sampling Methodology
In low- and middle-income countries, financial constraints often limit survey scope. The workshop addresses:
- Optimizing sample allocation
- Reducing travel and operational costs
- Efficient clustering strategies
- Trade-offs between precision and affordability
Cost-efficient design is critical for sustainable survey implementation.
6. Health Facility Survey Sampling and Data Linkage
Beyond household surveys, health facility assessments are increasingly important. Participants will learn:
- Facility sampling frames
- Linking facility and population data
- Integration of administrative datasets
- Challenges in health system surveys
This integration strengthens health system evaluation and policy translation.
Delivery Approach: Learning by Doing
The workshop adopts an experiential learning methodology, including:
- Interactive lectures
- Case studies from EPMA surveys
- Hands-on exercises in Stata
- Group discussions
- Expert Q&A sessions
- Peer networking
Rather than passive listening, participants actively engage with real datasets and practical scenarios.
With only 20 participants, the environment encourages meaningful interaction and personalized feedback.
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is ideal for:
- Monitoring and Evaluation practitioners
- Public health researchers
- MSc and PhD students
- Data analysts
- Health program managers
- Government health officers
- NGO and development professionals
Anyone involved in survey design, implementation, or evaluation will benefit significantly.
For postgraduate students, the training can strengthen thesis design and improve methodological rigor. For professionals, it enhances the ability to commission, design, or critically evaluate national surveys.
Why This Training Is Timely for Ethiopia
Ethiopia is undergoing rapid health system transformation. Key national priorities include:
- Reducing maternal mortality
- Improving child survival
- Expanding reproductive health services
- Strengthening health facility performance
Achieving these goals requires reliable, up-to-date data.
However, data quality challenges remain:
- Sampling bias
- Inadequate sample size
- Weak linkage between household and facility data
- Limited advanced statistical capacity
This workshop directly addresses these gaps.
By strengthening survey methodology skills, Ethiopia moves closer to evidence-based policymaking.
The Role of LSHTM Collaboration
The collaboration with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) adds international expertise to the program.
LSHTM is globally recognized for excellence in epidemiology, biostatistics, and global health research. Its involvement ensures that the training meets international methodological standards while remaining contextually relevant to Ethiopia.
This partnership bridges local implementation and global best practices.
The Bigger Vision: A Center for RMNCH Survey Research
The workshop is part of a broader ambition—to establish a regional center of excellence for RMNCH survey research and translation in East Africa.
This center aims to:
- Build long-term local expertise
- Integrate survey training into MSc and PhD programs
- Offer continuous professional development courses
- Promote evidence translation into policy
By participating, trainees become part of a growing professional network dedicated to strengthening health data systems in the region.
Scholarship Opportunities
While the training fee is USD 1,000, scholarships are available on a competitive basis for a limited number of applicants.
This ensures inclusivity and access for talented professionals who may face financial barriers.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and prepare strong applications highlighting their relevance and commitment.
Networking and Professional Growth
Beyond technical skills, the workshop offers:
- Peer networking opportunities
- Exposure to national and international experts
- Professional recognition
- Certification of accomplishment
In the long term, such training enhances career prospects in:
- Academia
- Government health institutions
- International development organizations
- Research consultancies
- Global health agencies
How to Apply
- Application Period: February 10–24, 2026
- Training Dates: March 23–27, 2026
- Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Seats Available: 20
- Application link: EPMA
Interested participants should apply promptly due to limited seats.
Final Thoughts: Investing in Data, Investing in Health
Strong health systems depend on strong data. And strong data depends on strong methodology.
The Health Survey Methodology and Sampling Workshop is not merely a short-term training—it is part of a national movement toward evidence-driven decision-making in Ethiopia.
For researchers, it sharpens technical expertise.
For policymakers, it strengthens data reliability.
For students, it builds foundational methodological competence.
For the country, it enhances the quality of health policy decisions.
In an era where data guides development, mastering survey methodology is not optional—it is essential.
If you are serious about advancing your expertise in survey design, sampling, and public health research, this workshop offers a rare and valuable opportunity.
Seats are limited. The impact is lasting.
