Learning and Practice Alliances (LPAs)

Research projects too often do not result in policy change, because they do not take into account the complex realities of a country or fail to include the main stakeholders in the process of research.

RiPPLE has sought to address these challenges from the start by establishing ten Learning and Practice Alliances (LPAs) - one in each region and woreda where RiPPLE is working, and one at national level. Steps have now been taken towards establishing a regional Nile Basin LPA.

The LPAs are central to RiPPLE's approach. They are driving the research agenda in each region and woreda according to local priorities, and will be actively involved in developing and testing new approaches to water and sanitation provision. Capacity building activities will be offered to support LPA participants, and participants will themselves act as capacity building agents as they share experiences with each other and with their organizations and networks.

What is an LPA?

An LPA is a group of stakeholders from organisations working in the country, region or woreda in question, who meet periodically to share experiences on issues of joint interest. The organisations represented may be governmental, civil society or private sector, and may work in implementation, policy or research.

Each LPA has a professional, full-time coordinator who is responsible for engaging stakeholders and driving the LPA process, with support from the RiPPLE office. In addition to regular meetings, LPA members are encouraged to interact on an ongoing basis. They are supported by the coordinators in developing new ways to work together.

What is the role of the LPAs in RiPPLE

In an LPA, the regional stakeholders themselves determine the agenda for research and pave the way for change, with support from RiPPLE researchers. This will ensure that research is relevant and useful. Effective change requires genuine participation at all levels. For further information on LPAs see the dedicated LPA pages here.

Page last updated 23 Jun 2008