Microfinance Training of Trainers: 2nd Blended Learning Course

Background

All video conference lectures listed in the agenda are open to everyone for free.

Microfinance has been recognized as a powerful instrument for poverty reduction. Access to financial services enables the poor to build assets, increase incomes, and reduce their vulnerability. While the gap between the supply and demand for financial services for the poor is huge, the main constraint is not lack of funds for the sector but the lack of capacity in developing countries in operating sustainable institutions.

Recognizing this constraint, the Training of Trainers on Microfinance (MFTOT) course is the second in a series of blended distant learning course aimed at addressing the urgent need to increase the training capacity of microfinance experts in the Asia and Pacific region. This unique course integrates four learning methods: 

1. self-paced study using the Microfinance Distance Learning Course (MFDL) workbook and CD-ROM developed by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF);
2. online tutoring;
3. interactive videoconferences with international experts; and
4. moderated e-discussion through the Global Development Learning Network (GDLN).

The first MFTOT, organized in early 2005, reached over 100 regular participants in seven Asian countries, certified 10 local instructors, and received the highest rating among the courses offered through the GDLN. Feedback from the first workshop revealed that the blended distance learning approach provided flexibility to working adult learners and enriched participants’ learning experiences. Based on popular request, the second course is extended to two additional countries. Participating countries in the second course include: Afghanistan, Mongolia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Japan, Cambodia and Lao PDR.

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Objectives

The course aims to expand knowledge of good practices in microfinance development to decision makers and practitioners in Asia and the Pacific.

Specifically, the course will enhance the capacity of instructors and online tutors to make the MFDL course accessible to about 200 regular participants and 40 local instructors in eight countries.

The regular participants will include those who wish to improve knowledge on best practices in microfinance while the TOT participants will go through a rigorous and transparent certification process to be certified as local instructors in the region.

To further enhance capacity of local instructors who were certified under the first course and to effectively support new participants in the second course, three top local instructors from the first course are engaged as local tutors.

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Participants

The MFDL course is designed for professionals as well as new entrants to the field of microfinance including professionals, practitioners, policy makers, donor staff, NGOs, consultants, socially responsible investors and others working in development. The MFTOT aims to train and accredit trainers of the MFDL course. Course materials for self-study are available on-line and the video conference sessions are open to regular participants and the general public.

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How to Apply

Participation in all video conference sessions is freely open to the public at GDLN centers in Tokyo, Manila, Colombo, Hanoi, and Kabul. Also at World Bank offices in Phnom Penh and Vientiane and the JICA office in Ulaanbaatar. E-mail Naomi Koike at ADBITDLC@worldbank.org for more information.

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Language

English with Vietnamese translation (available in Viet Nam only)

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Cosponsors

The United Nations Capital Development Fund, and the Tokyo Development Learning Center of the World Bank, in collaboration with the Global Development Learning Network.