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Enhancing Development Impact from Research: GCARD 2010

Organized by GFAR, the Global Conference on Agricultural Research for Development (GCARD) is more than just a Conference - its a multi-year process of learning and continuous updating of the global agricultural research for development (AR4D) system. Our aim is to create new ways of working together to enhance the development value of research. Weve put together an information note to help you get a better idea of the process and its goals. We hope you will find this clear and informative and look forward to your inputs in this process.

What is the GCARD?  

1)  Our AIM

GCARD aims to develop a new global agricultural research system, driven by tangible development outcomes and bringing together all those involved in agriculture research for development (AR4D).  

2)  Our OBJECTIVES

To ensure that:

  - Agricultural research outputs are accessible and relevant to the poor in developing countries
  - Research focuses on the right questions and is driven by the development needs of the resource-poor
  - Knowledge generation through scientific research is embedded in development thinking and practice
  - Funding systems are aligned between research and development
  - Effective innovation pathways are developed between diverse stakeholders
  - International agricultural research systems are effectively integrated with regional and national partners (public, private and civil) and respond to national and sub-regional demands to help ensure development impact.

3)  The GCARD Process  

The Global Forum on Agricultural Research (GFAR) is organizing a rolling series of Global Conferences on Agricultural Research for Development (GCARDs) every two years, starting in 2009. The Conferences will be an open and inclusive process for consultation and change to reshape agricultural research and innovation, to improve resources for research and increase its impact on development. The Conferences replace both the GFAR Triennial Conferences (2000, 2003, 2006) and the Annual General Meetings of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). 

Each GCARD Conference will be preceded by a series of consultations conducted at regional and global levels to capture the contributions and perspectives of all stakeholders in the agricultural research, education and development systems. This will reshape the global agricultural research for development agenda and centre it on the needs of the poor in developing countries.

In carrying out this major undertaking, GFAR will be reaching out to all stakeholders in AR4D, working through its constituent agencies and networks, which include: the six Regional Research Fora (FARA, EFARD, AARINENA, FORAGRO, APAARI, CACAARI), who represent National Agricultural Research Systems, the Alliance of CGIAR centres, the FAO, IFAD, and representatives of farmers (IFAP), civil society, the private sector and donor agencies.

As a first step in the GCARD 2010 process, we are currently looking for GCARD Regional Review Consultants.  Please click here for more information on how YOU can get involved. We remind you that the deadline for applications is this Friday, May 22nd. We look forward to hearing from you!

To find out more about the first GCARD in Montpellier, France from 28 to 31 March 2010, please click on the link below.

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