ANNUAL REPORT 2009 - FPDL

SustainabilitySustainability refers to how initiatives introduced by the program can continue to beeffective after the program funding ceases. Materials appear to be the mostsustainable elements, followed by trainers who know how to use them. Thelaunching of new products, as has been done recently, requires more effort toconsolidate. They require introduction to training organizations, training of trainers,and help in making local adaptations, including translations of materials.Strong points include:• The program is focussed on setting the conditions for sustainable developmentthrough motivating and building capacity of its network members• The emphasis on use of and access to good quality materials supportssustainability• The generic nature of materials makes them adaptable over place and timeHowever, there are a number of challenges including:• Networks need continuous resources to be able to continue• Institutions take time and encouragement to establish and make routine newprogrammes• Institutions need support in developing the business side of their activities toensure sustainability• Generic materials need extra effort locally to link into practical locally relevanttopics which increasingly may require accreditation.•RecommendationsThe evaluators consider that the programme should be continued but with animproved base of knowledge to ensure continued relevance. The potential synergiesbetween the experience in the region and the needs of a wider range of countriesshould be explored with LGI and other funding partners. The new anti-corruptionwork should be continued and areas of potential strength such as participativestrategic planning should be developed in more depth. The excellent work onmaterials development and dissemination should be continued.They should seek to continue the combination of practical work in Romania withfurther building on their valuable experience of working internationally.FPDL have a great potential to support institutions which themselves strengthen localgovernment – an essential foundation for developmentOn tools, mainly the training materials and guidelines developed, the evaluatorsconsider that the approach of working with high quality generic training should becontinued. Local adaptation is already promoted, but there should be progressivelymore emphasis in stimulating and assisting the development of locally relevantprogrammes and material. Involvement in focused locally relevant training inRomania is a good complement to the regional and international activities.FPDL is strong in the use of existing materials, introducing through training of trainersand motivating participants. This is the foundation for a potentially very wide impact.This work should be continued, but the gradual development of new materials shouldalso be encouraged, linked to continuous assessment of the areas of need.The evaluators make the following recommendations:• Continue focus on high quality generic materials with wide potential use• Continue/ increase focus on training in local adaptation to develop specificlocally relevant training• Continue the policy of open access to tools• Continue investment in materials production and local adaptation, and ensureaccess via Internet. Review and reinvigorate the links with UN-HABITAT,possibly with funding from LGI20