On 29th September, we had the pleasure of inviting our partners to the second Task Force meeting of the CD4D2 project. The support of the Task Force members is crucial to the success of the project and we recognize that their continued input has allowed us to go from strength to strength.
As with much of our recent work the meeting took place online, however this did not detract from the lively debate. Indeed, adapting and showing flexibility with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic has been a critical part of the recent progress of the project.
The CD4D2 team were able to update the Task Force, with particular focus on overcoming the operational challenges that COVID-19 brings to a project that relies heavily on the travel of its participants. A switch was made to virtual assignments where travel has not been possible, as well as numerous virtual outreach events that have taken place within the diaspora communities in the Netherlands. We were also happy to explain that several regular physical assignments have also been undertaken, and we are hopeful that more will be arranged in the near future when the situation allows.
We also heard about how members of the Task Force have dealt with the current situation within their own work, and this led to a fruitful discussion about further ways in which we can adapt to ensure the CD4D2 project is a success despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
The meeting was supplemented with two excellent contributions from current CD4D2 participants. This allowed the Task Force to better understand how the project works on the ground and provide evidence of the positive impact CD4D2 is having on the transfer of knowledge to host institutions in the focus countries.
We are also grateful for the continued support of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs who are funding the CD4D2 project and also kindly provided the funding for the initial CD4D project.
For a list of our Task Force partners please click here.
Highlights of Evaluation Report by Maastricht University