Call for Participants

Asia Capacity Building Workshop on Biodiversity and Its Research Management

22 – 23 September 2019 – Jakarta, Indonesia

 

Application Deadline: 19th July 2019

 

In collaboration with ALMI (Indonesian Young Academy of Sciences), InSME (Indonesian Society of Microbial Ecology) and IULI (International University Liaison Indonesia), the International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA) Asia, is organising the International Network for Government Science Advice Asia Capacity Building Workshop in Jakarta on the 22nd and 23rd of September 2019.

Many of the challenges facing modern societies can neither be adequately nor solely addressed by using common sense, experience, ideological principles, or basic analytical methods. Whether it is climate change, renewable energy, natural disasters, food security, or disease pandemics, policymakers need current and accurate scientific advice to inform their decisions.

Obtaining rigorous and useful science advice in a timely manner is pertinent in navigating complex policy areas involving multiple stakeholders. However, incorporating the advice into policymaking is not a straightforward process.

As a whole, the interface between science, politics and society is a minefield for both policymakers and scientists. Thus, there is an increasing need for scientists to be trained to have science advice and communication skills to ensure that evidence-based policies are made and favour a positive impact to all stakeholders.

The Asia-Pacific region is home to about half of the global biodiversity hotspots. People in the region depend directly on the forest and biodiversity services that contribute significantly to economic growth; benefiting more than 4.5 billion people. With more than half of the world’s population located in the Asia region, there has been a variety of ecological and environmental issues that have become increasingly severe and require immediate attention. Some of the threats include extreme weather events, rising sea-levels, increased invasive foreign species, agricultural intensification and an increase of waste and pollution.

The degradation of biodiversity affects humans in many ways; particularly in health and overall well-being as well as economically. A healthy community relies on a well-functioning and balanced ecosystem. “Biodiversity loss can destabilize ecosystems, promote outbreaks of infectious disease, and undermine development progress, nutrition, security and protection from natural disasters” according to Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director, Department of Public Health, Environmental and Social Determinants of Health. The Global Biodiversity Outlook 3 report summarizes that despite efforts and success in conservation measures supporting biodiversity, global biodiversity loss is still ongoing. A collective effort of individuals and multiple-level organisations is essential to address the issue of biodiversity loss.

Objectives of Workshop:

  • To promote science advice in the region;
  • To strengthen capacity for science advice in leadership, governance and multi-sectoral action for conservation and research management of biodiversity;
  • To promote dialogues between researchers and policymakers on the underlying social determinants to address biodiversity issues in Asia;
  • To build regional networks for science advice among biodiversity researchers, national and international authorities and other biodiversity stakeholders.

 

Theme

Biodiversity and its Research Management

 

Date and Venue

22 – 23 September 2019 at Indonesian National Library, Jakarta.

 

Programme Structure

The INGSA Asia Capacity Building Workshop is developed as a highly interactive workshop that includes training, application, peer support and mentorship. Participants will attend a 2-day intensive on-site programme at the Indonesian National Library, Jakarta. Throughout the workshop, participants will be involved in:

 

  1. Skills-training:
  • Elements of effective (collective) science advice
  • Strategies towards effective collaboration and network building
  • Creative and systems thinking
  • Problem solving and decision-making skills
  • Effective communication skills
  • Stakeholder engagement skills
  • Overcoming cultural inhibitions
  • Monitoring and assessment of programme impact

 

  1. Best practices, experiences and opportunities:
  • Reflections
  • Insights from experienced science advisors
  • Opportunities for participants to apply the skills that they have acquired

 

Expected commitment

The INGSA Asia Capacity Building Workshop is seeking ambitious and values-driven scientist or policymakers who are committed towards actively contributing to or establishing science advice as well as promoting greater collaboration within the region. Selected participants will be expected to:

  • Apply the acquired skillsets in existing or new initiatives in the 12 months following the initial training and share their skillsets and experience with fellow researchers in their respective countries.
  • Continue interacting with other participants via events and/or online means of communication.

 

Costs

Training during the workshop will be provided for free to all participants. Airfare, accommodation and meal costs will be supported for only a selected number of participants. There will be some costs such as visas and vaccinations that will not be covered by the programme; for which participants will need to seek support from their local institutions and/or personal funds.

 

Selection criteria and application process

Applicants will need to display compelling evidence of their interest in science advice. This potential can be demonstrated in areas such as research excellence, talent development, advocacy, connection, outreach, education etc. The selection process will consider individual qualities as well as a focus on ensuring diversity of culture, subject background (natural and social sciences, engineering, arts, humanities etc.) and gender among the participants. Where possible, the programme will also attempt to create small nodes of leadership; multiple strong applicants from the same centre or country will thus be considered. The following criteria are used as a guide for the nomination and selection of fellows:

  • Working in Asia or on Asian-related issues with Asian partners;
  • Having at least 2 years of work experience within the themes of Biodiversity.
  • Interest in translating and communicating the results of their work to create a positive impact in society;
  • Interested in how to use scientific research and evidence to inform policymaking;
  • Demonstrated leadership ability in research and beyond;
  • Having an active interest in interdisciplinary efforts to solve global problems;
  • Being proficient in English;
  • Commitment to take part for the whole duration of the workshop;
  • Commitment towards engaging in the activities of the region;
  • Intent to share what is learned in the programme with their broader networks.

 

All applicants have to fill up the registration form and provide one recommendation letter from their proposed referee and a brief curriculum vitae from this link https://forms.gle/6tUJSsWmb9G2GUos6 .Please ensure that the support letters are sent using accredited institutional letterheads. The referee is required to commit to be involved in future communications should the need arise.

 

Application is closed and the shortlisted participants will be informed soon!

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