Difference between revisions of "Capacity Development"

It is a process of change through which the system, institutions and individuals are strengthened in order to better perform core functions, solve problems, define and achieve objectives; and to understand and deal with development needs in a sustainable manner.^[3]. It focuses on national capacity to be developed, such as:^[4]

• The capacity to set objectives
• The capacity to develop strategies
• The capacity to draw up and implement action plans
• The capacity to develop and implement appropriate policies
• The capacity to develop regulatory and legal frameworks
• The capacity to build and manage partnership
• The capacity to foster an enabling environment for civil society
• The capacity to mobilize and manage resources
• The capacity to monitor progress

Capacity Development needs to be addressed at three levels: individual, institutional and systemic.

At the individual level, capacity development involves enhancing knowledge and skills, and refers to the process of changing attitudes and behaviors, through learning and training. It involves enabling individuals to embark on lifelong learning, building on existing knowledge and skills and extending them in new directions. It also involves learning by doing, participation, ownership and processes to increase performance through changes in management, motivation, morale, and levels of accountability and responsibility.^[5]

At the institutional level, capacity development focuses on the performance and functioning capabilities of an institution and it also involves building on existing capacities. This includes developing the mandates, the tools, the guidelines, and the information management systems for the institution. ^[6]