* Most of this text has been drawn from a report by D. Bajracharya, research fellow at the East West Resource Systems Institute, Hawaii. Anita Manandhar and Tanka Kharel, two of the Nepalese field workers, contributed large sections.
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This paper describes the participative action and planning approach of a UNDP/FAO supported project in LDC's of Asia. The methodology emphasizes action as an entry point to local level planning, and the role of animator or "match-maker" of the development worker for participative planning. The case of Nepal, which is described in more detail, shows the slow process of initiation of participative action, and its acceleration over time once confidence is created. It also demonstrates the necessity of integrated planning as the community always sees its priorities globally and not sectorally as government institutions tend to. The analysis of conflicts, and the need for flexibility in the technical and financial assistance to the community is particularly well illustrated. |
"An outsider who comes with ready-made solutions and advice is worse than useless. He/she must first understand from us what our questions are, and help us articulate the questions better and then help us find solutions. Outsiders also have to change. She/he alone is a friend who helps us think about our problems on our own."(Vanguard Group, Bhoomi Sena, Rahman, 1981.)
