The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) recently hosted a six-day training workshop on Foresight research, held at Dhulikhel Lodge Resort in Nepal from August 12 to August 17, 2024. This unique event brought together participants from across South Asia, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, to dive deep into the fascinating world of Foresight research.
Mahmudol Hasan Rocky
Research Coordinator
Key Facilitators and Participants
Mr. Jim from Foresight4Food and Mr. Luke, representing the Singapore government, led the workshop. Both facilitators guided participants through the comprehensive Foresight research process, while several other experts also shared insights from their research.
Key facilitators from ICIMOD, including Ms. Amina Maharjan, Ms. Sabarnee Tuladhar, Mr. Binaya Pasakhala, and Ms. Simran Silpakar, played a pivotal role in the workshop’s success. From Bangladesh, representatives from the Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit (RMMRU), Mr. Mahmudol Hasan Rocky, Research Coordinator, and Mr. Parvez Bhuiyan, Research Associate, actively participated in the event.
Group Work
Unpacking Foresight Research
The workshop began with Mr. Jim providing a conceptual foundation for Foresight research. He introduced participants to essential tools and methodologies, clarifying how Foresight can be used to anticipate and prepare for future challenges. Some of the key tools explored included:
- Rich Picture
- Casual Loop Diagram (CLD)
- Data Walk
- Driver Identification/Horizon Scanning (PEESTLE)
- Impact and Uncertainty Matrix
- Scenario Development
- Visualizing Scenarios
- Scenario Implications
These tools offer a structured way to think about the future, helping researchers and policymakers navigate uncertainty and make informed decisions.
Group Picture
Government Perspective
Mr. Luke brought valuable insights from the governmental side, highlighting how Foresight research is implemented in public policy. His contributions provided a broader context, demonstrating the practical application of these tools at the policy level.
Conclusion
The training workshop was an enriching experience for all involved, providing participants with the knowledge and skills to incorporate Foresight research into their work. The diverse group of participants and the collaborative environment ensured that the event served as both a learning opportunity and a platform for cross-border exchange to anticipate and shape the future.
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Parvez Bhuiyan
Research Associate