Message from the Executive Secretariat for Integral Development (SEDI)

The OAS Executive Secretariat for Integral Development (OAS-SEDI) is pleased to share this newsletter with partners and friends. SEDI News will capture highlights of OAS activities in the area of development each month. OAS programs in member states continue to play an important role in the long term goal to reduce poverty and advance sustainable and inclusive development in the Americas. This first issue of SEDI News reflects only a small sample of what has been done in the past month in areas that have been identified as priorities by our Member States.

One article examines the issue of rapid urbanization and its implications, and highlights innovative, technology-based and environmentally friendly solutions that are being implemented at the local level by NGOs with the support of the OAS through its “Sustainable Communities in Central America and the Caribbean” initiative. These programs have real world applications with measurable results.

The technology theme continues through the international meeting of Virtual Educa in Medellin, Colombia. Over the course of 14 years, this annual meeting has positioned itself as a leading event for educational innovation in the region, bringing together government officials, private sector, teachers, students to take part in training sessions and demonstrate how ICTs may support quality education which is a critical factor for social mobility and sustainable economic development in an increasingly interconnected world.

Country leadership as well as the consultative and partnership driven nature of OAS development efforts are reflected in the discussion of the meeting of the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (RIAC). When Panama hosts the 7th Americas Competitiveness Forum in October, the focus on “Infrastructure and Technology” is intended to further position Panama and the Americas as a growth hub for global trade.

The joint launch of a new post-graduate diploma course by the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the OAS marks a step forward in the evolution of the Inter-American Social Protection Network (IASPN). The joint program brings together various areas of interest – education, social protection, program design and evaluation, strategic management, human and institutional development, and public policy.

A defining thread in all of these programs is that of partnership. OAS-SEDI’s substantive work, its ability to be responsive to country needs and be impactful is directly related to the strong and trusted collaborative networks that have been established over time, and ongoing efforts to forge new partnerships. Consequently, we have included a section called “Cooperation in Action” to share with you information about recent agreements with different partners -- governments, the private sector, civil society, academia and other multilateral organizations -- that will support our work going forward.

We hope that you enjoy SEDI News and invite you to visit our official website for program updates.

Sherry Tross
Executive Secretary, OAS/SEDI

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