Pairing schemes offer a valuable platform for policymakers and scientists to collaborate, fostering a deeper understanding of complex issues and driving evidence-based policymaking. This guide provides a step-by-step framework for organizing such initiatives, drawing on the experiences of the SIMIL Programme from the BETA Technological Center (UVIC-UCC).
Summary: Key features in a nutshell
The SIMIL Programme Pairing Scheme is a bridge of connection between policy makers and scientists. This initiative is born from the need to promote bidirectional dialogue within the science-policy interface to address the complexities of contemporary environmental challenges with solidity. This initiative aims to foster a two-way understanding, empowering municipalities, especially the smallest and rural ones, with the knowledge and tools relevant to their specific context. Policy makers need technical knowledge to keep abreast of innovative solutions, as well as scientists need to be fully familiar with local realities. At this vital intersection between science and politics, collaboration is not only beneficial, but essential. SIMIL facilitates collaborative development of solutions, overcoming traditional barriers, to pave the way for more informed and therefore more effective policymaking.
By fostering collaborative dialogue and knowledge exchange, this program addresses complex environmental challenges with evidence-based solutions. Through a series of face-to-face sessions and online interactions, policymakers and scientists work together to identify key challenges, explore innovative solutions, and inform policy decisions, under a thematic priority common to all participants. This approach leverages the expertise of both sectors to create more effective and sustainable policies that benefit communities and the environment. These sessions are designed to create a dynamic and productive environment where policymakers and scientists can learn from each other, build relationships, and develop innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
How does the format work?
Before starting the activities…
Use registration as an opportunity to gather information necessary for the design of the sessions.
There are different formats for conducting the Pairing Schemes for groups of policymakers and scientists:
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