Joint Secretariat Puts Spotlights on Greater Collective Action and Policy Integration Efforts in Asia
An old saying has it that “two heads are better than one”, and as far as the development world goes, it requires working in a concerted manner to build on each other’s strengths. The recently established Joint Secretariat of two GIZ networks in Asia, located within GIZ Bangkok Office, will support and facilitate the work of its member projects across the region through sharing of best practices, improving results, and pitching the corporate portfolio, among many others.
The tipping point for the decision to establish a joint secretariat can be traced back to the inaugural joint conference of the Sector Networks TUEWAS (Transport, Environment, Energy and Water) and SNRD Asia (Sector Network Natural Resources and Rural Development Asia) in June 2016 and the internal organisational reform, also known as Bauhaus. Recognising the value added that comes with stronger ties, the thematically closely related SNRD Asia and TUEWAS therefore decided to align operations and synergise resources.
The FAQ below has been designed to acquaint you with the roles and functions of Sector Networks as part of GIZ’s knowledge management and explain why you should become a member and be part of this great circle for not only professional but many other reasons.
FAQ
Q: What is a Sector Network?
A: In principal, a Sector Network is a tool to group like-minded or closely interconnected people, projects and programmes together. As part of GIZ’s intention to manage the transfer of knowledge and best practices, Sector Networks help foster technical experts in sharing their experience and networking within their own focus areas or cross-sectorally.
Q: What is a Sector Network’s main objective?
A: Generally, a Sector Network aims to enhance learning and cooperation in the region through constructive and cost-effective exchange across different GIZ offices. This means synergising goals and activities and creating added value for projects, partners and GIZ staff working in different countries and contexts via virtual and web-based tools, in addition to face-to-face events. Additionally, it is meant to improve results, orientation and corporate visibility across regions.
Q: What is SNRD Asia?
A: SNRD Asia stands for Sector Network Natural Resources and Rural Development in Asia. It currently links 58 programmes and projects in 21 countries across Asia Pacific as well as global and sector projects. The focus areas of SNRD Asia are categorised thematically under 7 Working Groups, namely (1) Adaptation to Climate Change, (2) Agriculture, (3) Biodiversity, (4) Hills to Oceans, (5) Green Education, (6) Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) and (7) Joint Working Group Sustainable Development Goals. Find out more at http://www.snrd-asia.org
Q: What is TUEWAS?
A: TUEWAS means Transport, Environment, Energy, and Water in Asia. It is composed of more than 70 projects in 16 Asian countries and more than 150 individuals are actively involved in this sector network. Through thematic components, the member projects are categorised into the following Working Groups and one Task Force; (1) Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMAs) and Market Mechanisms, (2) Transformation – Urban Opportunities – Climate Change, (3) Sustainable Industrial Areas, (4) Renewable Energy, (5) Energy Efficiency, (6) Water and Sanitation, (7) Transport and Environment, and (8) Joint Working Group Sustainable Development Goals. To learn more, visit: https://www.giz.de/fachexpertise/html/3358.html
Q: How can you become active in a Sector network?
A: Everyone is encouraged to become active in a Sector Network that is related to the topic of their work, while interested external members are also welcome to join and exchange their ideas and experiences. More information on the application could be retrieved from the Secretariat.
Interested in joining SNRD Asia or TUEWAS?
Please contact:
Nalina Hiranprueck
SNRD Asia and TUEWAS Network Manager
T: +66 2 661 9273
E: nalina.hiranprueck@giz.de
For press and public relations inquiries, contact:
Anusara Tanpitak
SNRD Asia and TUEWAS Public Relations Officer
T: +66 81 904 3326
E: anusara.tanpitak@giz.de
GALLERY
Anusara Tanpitak and Nalina Hiranprueck