KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
This Programme directly addresses key CAADP targets for improving technology dissemination and information flows, as well as playing a key role in the delivery of each of CORAF/WECARD’s own Results. It serves as a strong signal to all, that CORAF/WECARD’s intention is to shift the paradigm in which it operates. The development of a communication strategy, as a component of the Knowledge Programme, ensures that all relevant and appropriate media channels and mechanisms are utilised to share and advocate the policy options which are developed. Knowledge management covers a wide range of issues and mechanisms and is closely linked to dissemination and uptake of knowledge, advocacy, co-ordination of effort and experiential learning. All programmes respond to, and deliver, on the needs of knowledge management covered by guidelines in the Knowledge Management Programme strategy. This is supported and enhanced through co-ordination led by the Programme Managers under the oversight of the Director Programmes in the CORAF/WECARD Secretariat. The mechanisms for knowledge management utilise a range of options and methodologies, to develop and improve current technologies. These new approaches focus on the development of relationships to enable effective and significant exchange of knowledge. Research is conducted in key areas such as appropriate media to use and ways for effective empowerment to articulate demand, in order to determine optimum systems. Note that the Programme-based knowledge and information functions and activities are distinct from the essentially internal responsibilities of the Secretariat in its Information and Communication Unit.
This Programme aims to achieve, for West and Central Africa, sustainable improvements in broad-based productivity, competitiveness and markets through:
- Developing appropriate mechanisms for effective knowledge management
- Identifying and supporting the development of strategic decision-making options for policy and institutions relevant to knowledge management
- Strengthening and co-ordinating sub-regional knowledge management
- Facilitating and meeting the demand for agricultural knowledge from targeted clients
The delivery of these results will be through a mixture of competitive and commissioned work through networking within the NARS. There may be an initial focus on commissioned activities and projects due to the specialised nature of the programme. International centres with knowledge management and processing skills are likely to feature prominently during the early stages of Programme implementation.
Current initiatives under this programme – The following projects are being implemented:
Dissemination and extension network for improvement of livestock technologies
Regional Agricultural Information and Learning Systems [RAILS]
Capitalisation and sharing of agricultural research innovations and results in West and Central Africa.
Programme Manager: Dr. Sidi SANYANG