Working Towards a Sustainable Future: UID, Semai Institute and Local Government of Sumedang Join Forces for Development

On 31st January 2023, the United in Diversity Foundation (UID), the host institution of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Southeast Asia, conducted a workshop for the Local Government of Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia in collaboration with the Semai Research and Sumedang Regency.

This workshop was held in Jakarta, Indonesia and attended by 49 key local civil servants from Sumedang Regency. The purpose of the workshop was to support the local government in developing its development strategy plan for the next two years, until 2024, by providing the local government with a clear direction for addressing the complex development challenges faced by the region.

During the workshop, the participants were introduced to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators as the basis for evidence-based policy planning. Theoretical frameworks such as systems thinking, root cause analysis, and scenario planning were also used.

The workshop had three main objectives, which were to:

  1. Provide the participants with a clear understanding of the Sumedang Regency Poverty Alleviation and Development Strategy work plan;
  2. Internalize the framework that will be used during the development of the strategy plan; and
  3. Facilitate technical coordination between the Sumedang District Government team and the UID and Semai Research team.

Moving forward, the UID, Semai Research, and Sumedang Regency team will conduct on-the-ground research, data mapping, and further focus group discussions to develop the development strategy plan.

This collaboration will pave the way for a sustainable future for the people of Sumedang. UID hopes this will translate into real-world policy change and provide necessary guidance and assistance to the local government.

About Semai Institute

SEMAI RESEARCH is a prominent organization specializing in public policy, governance, and political communications. The Institute employs robust research methods to address pressing issues and provide solutions. It has established the SEMAI-SDG Index to track the progress of Sustainable Development Goals on a provincial level and works with policymakers to offer objective and practical policy recommendations for the public good. SEMAI RESEARCH is equipped with a multidisciplinary team of experts and a vast network to tackle complex challenges and advance knowledge in its fields of focus.

UID senior facilitator deliver her session on System Thinking and root cause analysis
District Secretary of Sumedang, Herman Suryatman observes his key officers in crystallizing the on-ground development challenges