Successful Lunch & Learn Event Showcases Alberta's Role in Global Sustainable Development
The Technical Assistance Partnership-Expert Deployment Mechanism (TAP-EDM), implemented by Alinea International in collaboration with the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy, hosted a sold-out Lunch and Learn event on July 24, 2024. The event, held at the School of Public Policy’s downtown campus, focused on “Alberta’s Contributions to Canadian International Development: Working Towards the Sustainable Development Goals through Responsible Resource Extraction.”
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd, eager to engage with a panel of Canadian mining experts: Deborah Archibald, Malcom Robb, and Freddy Cáceres. The discussion highlighted Canada’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships by promoting responsible resource extraction in countries around the world.
The session began with a video address from Kosovo’s Deputy Minister of Economy, Getoar Mjeku, who shared insights into the ongoing technical assistance his ministry has received in mining policy through the Global Affairs Canada TAP-EDM program. The successful collaboration has led to the extension of the project into a second phase, with TAP expert Deborah Archibald continuing her support.
Another video presentation by TAP expert Carlos Alberto Ortega, in partnership with the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining (IISD), showcased a TAP-supported initiative in Bhutan. This project focuses on developing robust legal and policy frameworks for environmental management and social impact assessments within the mining sector. Carlos highlighted the collaboration with Bhutan’s Department of Geology and Mines under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources to assess and enhance its Mining Policy Framework.
Following these presentations, a panel discussion moderated by Alinea’s Jenna Freeman delved into the key learnings and challenges faced by the experts during their TAP projects in Panama, Kosovo, and Malawi. The discussion underscored the crucial role of the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy, particularly the Extractive Resource Governance Program, in advancing sustainable practices and implementing effective policies globally.
One participant remarked on the depth of insights shared, emphasizing the importance of such events in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. According Jennifer Brophy, “Alongside my colleague at Summit Nanotech, Nick Barry-Hallee we had the privilege of listening to a stellar panel of experts, including Deborah Archibald, Malcolm Robb, and Freddy Cáceres. It’s inspiring to see the world tapping into Canada’s expertise in the Extractive Resource Sector.”
The TAP team extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this event, including the School of Public Policy staff, Master of Ceremonies Alem Cherinet, the TAP expert panelists, guest speakers, Dr. Siu Ming Kwok, SPP Academic Director, and Shantel Jordison from Alinea International.
About TAP-EDM
Funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Alinea International, this short-term technical assistance project aims to strengthen the capacity of national institutions in partner countries to manage policies in a more inclusive and gender-sensitive way. In line with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, it integrates gender equality, climate action, environmental sustainability, human rights and good governance. With an investment of C$18.75 million, this four-year project will involve more than 120 Canadian experts in 75 to 80 technical assistance initiatives designed to meet the capacity-development needs of beneficiary countries.
Photo credits: Lazy Dog Photography / Kimberley Parsons.