Developing of Education, Communication and Outreach Strategy in Integrated Water Resources management
The problem:
The Zarafshan River Basin in Uzbekistan faced challenges related to inadequate water resources management and efficiency. Key issues included insufficient community awareness about water efficiency and quality, limited integration of water management into policy frameworks, and a lack of updated educational resources and facilities. This situation was compounded by the need to strengthen the legal and regulatory framework for water management and integrate water considerations into broader intersectoral policies. Consequently, there was a pressing need for a comprehensive educational and outreach strategy to address these challenges effectively.
The solution:
InfoCapital Group LLC (ICG) developed and implemented a multifaceted strategy as part of the project initiated by UNDP and the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan:
1. Education and Outreach Strategy:
- Development of Strategy and Action Plan: ICG created a comprehensive education and outreach strategy aimed at raising community awareness about water efficiency and quality. The strategy focused on reducing discharges from agriculture, industry, and domestic wastewater into the Zarafshan River, thereby promoting better water management practices.
- Production of Materials: The team produced educational materials and learning resources to support the strategy, including guidelines for water use efficiency and measures to improve water quality.
2. Capacity Building and Training:
- Enhancing Educational Facilities: ICG upgraded educational facilities with new equipment for schools, colleges, lyceums, and universities. This included the development of modern learning tools and resources to improve the quality of education on water resources management.
- Training of Trainers: A series of training sessions were conducted for trainers to build capacity in Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). This training was aimed at equipping educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach water management concepts.
- Development of Teaching Materials: ICG developed comprehensive teaching materials to support the training of both students and water sector professionals.
3. Research and Surveys:
- Study Instruments and Indicators: The team prepared study instruments and indicators for assessing the effectiveness of the education and outreach efforts.
- Social Surveys: ICG conducted social surveys using questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interviews to gather data on community awareness and attitudes towards water management.
- Data Processing: Statistical data from these surveys were processed using SPSS software to analyze trends and measure the impact of the outreach activities.
4. Gender Evaluation and Reporting:
- Evaluation of Gender: The project included an evaluation of gender considerations in education and outreach activities to ensure inclusive and equitable access to information and training.
- Progress Reporting: Regular progress reports were produced to track the implementation of the strategy and assess its effectiveness in improving water management practices.
Through these activities, ICG successfully enhanced public understanding of water management issues, supported the development of robust educational infrastructure, and contributed to the overall improvement of water resource management in the Zarafshan River Basin.
Start date:
09/2011
Services:
Client:
UNDP
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