In Agricultural Research for Development (ARD), initiatives have been undertaken by the various stakeholders to launch information and communication systems. The Sub-Regional and Regional Fora of the NARS (National Agricultural Systems) have launched Regional Agricultural Information Systems (RAIS), and GFAR has also launched its website EGFAR (www.egfar.org). To achieve consistency, two general objectives can be formulated:
¿ To co-build a shared strategic agenda in information and communication management related to ARD, at the Regional and Global level;
¿ To launch EGFAR as a portal for ARD enhancing a transparent access to the RAIS information resources.
These objectives will be achieved through a) electronic discussions an e-mail conferences, b) support missions executed by an advanced RAIS manager, c) four regional workshops and an inter-regional workshop.
The following outputs are expected:
¿ A shared vision and a related strategic agenda on activities to be developed at the regional (RAIS) and at the global level (EGFAR);
¿ Mechanisms, standards and tools for enhancing networking between RAIS and EGFAR.
Co-operation will benefit both parties