PLA Notes CD-ROM 1988-2001 5 Reflections on institutionalising participatory approaches in local NGOs in Eastern Nepal

Document begins: PLA Notes CD-ROM 1988­2001 5 Reflections on institutionalising participatory approaches in local NGOs in Eastern Nepal Marion Gibbon and Gopal Shrestha Summary A second objective of the workshop was to ensure that the process adopted moved beyond This paper reflects on an 8-day training needs assessment to develop action plans and workshop held in Eastern Nepal for local non- commitment. PRA has been criticised where it government organisations. The aim of the does not go beyond appraisal (White 1994), to workshop was to bring together a group of enable analysis, planning, prioritisation of people committed to a community possible options, and finally a commitment to act. empowering process. The workshop involved developing appropriate attitudes and behaviour A final objective for the workshop was to for community participation, practical work in the communities and preparation of an action ensure that the processes agreed on for needs plan at two levels, in the community and for assessment were socially inclusive. Projects developing a participatory climate for that purport to be participatory and involve all Dhankuta NGOs to work together. A follow- sectors of society can fail to produce a collective plan owned and shared by all. up was planned and ...