Evaluation Confirms GEST‘s Global Impact

An external independent evaluation of the GRÓ programmes has confirmed GEST's significant contributions to global gender equality efforts. The evaluation, conducted by GOPA Worldwide Consultants in 2024, highlights GEST’s strong alignment with Iceland’s international development priorities and its effectiveness in advancing gender equality and social justice in low- and middle-income countries.

Since its inception, the GRÓ GEST Programme has graduated 241 fellows from 38 countries through its five-month fellowship programme. Alumni consistently report significant professional advancements and contributions to gender-sensitive reforms in their home countries. The evaluation also focused on GEST’s tailored short courses, delivered in collaboration with local partners in countries such as Malawi and Uganda, as particularly impactful in driving community-level change, highlighting how they are “evidently oriented to the practical application of new understanding and skills by the direct beneficiaries.”

Innovated and multifaceted approach

The evaluation further commends GEST’s ability to engage a diverse audience through its multifaceted approach to capacity development. As such, the evaluator judged that “the GEST programme is highly effective in achieving training provision outreach, with approximately 16,800 individuals directly reached through its training offer during the period 2018-2023." This reach is largely attributed to GEST’s innovative use of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), which have enrolled thousands of people since their launch in 2020. Combined with the flagship five-month fellowship programme and short courses delivered in partner countries, GEST has established itself as a leader in advancing gender equality education globally.

The evaluation also underscores GEST’s innovative approach, noting the alignment of its training content with international development frameworks. By addressing topics such as gender-based violence, climate change, and economic empowerment, GEST equips its participants to tackle pressing global challenges.

Finally, the GOPA evaluation also commends the GRÓ GEST Programme for its robust monitoring and evaluation procedures, which ensure continuous improvement and alignment with its goals. It also highlights GRÓ GEST’s strong operational efficiency and prudent financial management, aligning with Icelandic public service standards. The programme was commended for delivering high-quality results in a timely and cost-effective manner. As such, the GOPA evaluation not only recognizes GEST’s achievements but also underlines GEST’s ability to build on new opportunities for further growth and innovation. As the programme continues to expand its reach and refine its offerings, it remains a cornerstone of Iceland’s commitment to global gender equality.

Importance of global academic discourse

“This recognition motivates us to continue refining and expanding our approach, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovative and impactful gender equality education. As an academic programme hosted by the University of Iceland, this recognition highlights the importance of our partnerships with universities in low-income and post-conflict societies, which are integral to our work. Many of our fellows are conducting groundbreaking research addressing critical issues in their home countries, further strengthening the global academic discourse on gender equality and social justice. This motivates us to deepen our collaborations and continue contributing to transformative change through both education and research,“ says Dr. Irma Erlingsdóttir, professor at the University of Iceland’s Faculty of Languages and Cultures and director of GRÓ GEST.

The GRÓ GEST team is proud of these results and looks forward to building on its success. By continuing to engage in partnerships and collaborative initiatives, GEST aims to contribute further to advancing gender equality and empowering individuals and communities worldwide.