Earth Council launches interactive e-learning course on desertification
17 November, 2006
What does it cover?
It is part of a training and skills development programme on land degradation issues. The classes focus on the economic, social and environmental impacts of desertification and aim, inter alia, to:
- familiarize participants with the complex and interrelated issues of desertification and poverty
- raise awareness of the global implications of desertification, and
- increase understanding of UNCCD as an innovative, global tool for coordinated action, and its implementation mechanisms.
Participants will discuss the global challenges posed by desertification and address most critical issues relating to effective implementation of the Convention at national, regional and international levels.
Who is it for?
The Earth Council aims to attract a broad base of participants from among development decision-makers in affected developing countries.While the course has been designed with parliamentarians, policy-makers and government officials in mind, it will certainly be of interest and to civil society organizations, the private sector, and trainers in dryland countries.
A special module has been designed for UNCCD National Focal Points to support them in reviewing and enhancing their countries’ National Action Plans (NAPs).
Lois Barber, the Executive Director of EarthAction said, "We especially hope that national legislators will enrol in the course to learn more about what they can do to create a more sustainable world."
How does it work?
The e-learning course is highly interactive and easily accessible through the Internet: www.earthcouncil.com/desertification
The course is facilitated by two international experts on desertification, from Unisféra: Ms Friederike Knabe, M.A., a specialist in dryland issues and the UNCCD, with emphasis on the correlation of poverty and environmental degradation, and Mr Karel Mayrand, M.A., a specialist in international environmental policies, trade, agriculture, and development issues.
The course lasts for 5 weeks and participants are expected to invest 20-30 hours of their time to complete it. A certificate of completion is awarded.
What does it cost?
$180 for participants from OECD member countries and $135 for participants from non-OECD member countries. A limited number of scholarships are also available.
When does it start?
The first course is scheduled from 30 October to 4 December 2006 and will be conducted in English.
The course will be held again in early 2007 when it will also be available in Chinese and Spanish.
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