International Training on
“Policies, Strategies and Support Systems for Rural Revitalization”
May 4th – 28th, 2015
Organized by the Weitz Center for Development Studies
The decline in the profitability of agriculture and environmental degradation has jeopardized the health and success of rural areas and their residents. Processes of urbanization, trade liberalization, government investment elsewhere and industrialization have left many rural areas in developing countries and countries in transition with limited income or employment for rural residents.
The international training Policies, Strategies and Support Systems for Rural Revitalization is designed to empower participants to approach these difficulties by identifying channels for rural development and revitalization, specifically through diversification of economic activities; improvement of social services; the establishment of an effective system of support for economic and social development and strengthening agricultural production. The course adopts the integrated approach for rural development – The Rehovot Approach, which stresses the importance of integrating economic activities, integrating national policies with local interests, and utilizing local assets for the development process.
The course aims to:
- Provide participants with knowledge, tools and strategies related to rural revitalization
- Inspire and energize participants to be agents for positive change in their countries
- Expose participants to new approaches and opportunities in the field of rural revitalization
- Present Israel as a case study from which to draw valuable lessons about rural revitalization
- Enrich participants with professional skills with which to develop their careers and best benefit their communities and countries
- Connect participants with an international network of professionals in their field
The program will provide participants with knowledge and tools in the following subjects:
É The role of agriculture in rural revitalization (information and communication technologies, agricultural R&D, extension work, market access and competitiveness)
É Economic development and diversification of economic niches in the rural realm (eco/agro-tourism, agro-industry, stimulating entrepreneurship).
É Ways to address the challenges posed by the provision of social services to dispersed rural populations. (community participation, empowerment and resilience)
É Sustainable development approaches (Green growth, asset-based development, sound environmental practices, adapting to climate change risks).
É Partnerships, financial and organizational tools for rural revitalization (the role for local government, infrastructure investments, SME support, settlement upgrading, PPP’s).
É Israeli examples and case studies which illustrate the above-mentioned concepts.
The Israeli experience
Israel has gained significant experience in rural development and revitalization. This includes national policies for rural development, the establishment of cooperative rural settlements, adopting novel technologies for agricultural production, and contemporary economic diversification in the rural areas.
The methodology
Participants will participate in both classroom based lectures and study visits, benefiting from the experience and knowledge of high-level Israeli experts and consultants. Israeli case studies and practice will be discussed throughout the program. Additionally, participants will be required to formulate and present a project of interest relevant to the topic of this course. For this purpose, some pre-course work will be required. Detailed instruction will be sent to the selected participants.
Remark: Please take into consideration that the program involves daily walking on the campus as well as during field visits.
Who may apply?
The training targets highly motivated individuals working to upgrade declined rural areas. Typically we are looking for: decision makers and policy makers working in governmental ministries, specifically in the field of rural development, environment, agriculture and resource management, planning and economics; Employees of local authorities in the relevant fields; Representatives of rural association; Managers of cooperatives, NGOs or CBOs; Key workers of private sector businesses which operate in the field.
Application Process
Candidates must complete the appropriate application forms (including health certificate, declaration etc.) available at the Israeli diplomatic mission in their country, or through the Internet http://mashav.mfa.gov.il, www.weitz-center.org. The completed forms should be submitted in WORD documents at the Israeli mission in your area and sent to our office (ronit@weitz-center.org) not later than February 27th, 2015. Candidates must also hand in a passport photo by electronic file.
Scholarships
The scholarships includes: tuition, 25 days with full board accommodation (sharing a room with one other participant), medical insurance and transportation from/to the airport in Israel. MASHAV assumes responsibility for the cost of participants’ medical insurance for the duration of the course excluding costs arising from dental care, pregnancy, eyeglasses and chronic illnesses.
MASHAV and the Weitz Center are not responsible in case of lost or stolen personal belongings.
The scholarship does not include flight tickets and additional out of pocket expenses. It should be taken into account when booking the flight tickets that the scholarship covers exclusively from3- 4.5.15 (arrival day) to 28.5.15 (day of departure). Any liability or expense out of this term shall be entirely at the expense of the participant.
About MASHAV
MASHAV – Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation - at Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was founded in late 1957, and is responsible for the design, coordination and implementation of the Sate of Israel’s development cooperation programs. MASHAV concentrates on human and institutional capacity building by sharing Israel’s own development experience and expertise, imparting know-how and transferring innovative technologies and tested methodologies adaptable to developing country needs. MASHAV’s approach is to ensure social, economic and environmental sustainable development, joining the international community's efforts to implement the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. In events of natural disasters, MASHAV also provides humanitarian assistance and participates in reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.
About Weitz Center
The Weitz Center for Development Studies is a leader in capacity building for sustainable development. Our work is dedicated to enhancing the efforts of international agencies, governments, communities, civil society and private sector organizations to achieve positive social and economic change worldwide. Towards this end, we offer high quality training and consulting services, highlighting our practical, assets-based and integrated approach to development. http://www.weitz-center.org/
Additional Information
Any additional information is available at:
Weitz Center for Development Studies
P.O.Box 12
Rehovot 76100, Israel
Tel: 972-8-9474111
Fax: 972-8-9475884
Cell: 972-54-6655233 (Mrs. Ronit Shpindel)