Post date: Feb 14, 2013 6:58:15 AM
"Extending access and connectivity across rural communities in South Africa" was the title of a policy dialogue held in February 2013 at the CSIR International Conference Centre in Pretoria, South Africa. PTC was among a number of role players invited from the public, private and NGO sectors to participate in the ongoing debate about how best to meet the needs of rural communities. "The dialogues bring together senior policy makers and their advisors to discuss the research results and the implications the research has for policy development and implementation in a neutral environment. In addition to policy makers and their advisors the events will also be attended by researchers and practitioners, both local and international" stated the dialogue introduction document.
The objectives of this dialogue series include:
Engage with actors across sectors
Make recommendations for implementation
Exchange good practice
Analyse impact of new technologies
Explore inter-sectoral strategies and opportunities
Promote learning, dissemination and knowledge transfer
Raise awareness of critical policy issues
Enrich policy discussion
Explore policy options and tools
"The large number and wide range of participants was a clear indication of the commitment of a diverse group of role players to really make a difference, supporting the spirit of the South African government's National Development Plan" comments Dr Peter Tobin of PTC, " and it was a privilege to be able to participate in the dialogue and I look forward to seeing the results of this initiative in the near future".