A SIX-MEMBER delegation from the Social Investment Fund of Moldova, an eastern European country, is currently in the island for a nine-day study tour to examine the "best practices" developed by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).
JSIF's Information Services Manager, Mrs. Claudette Patterson has described the visit as "historical" as it marks the first time members of a European Social Investment Fund would be studying methodologies developed in Jamaica with a view to replicating them.
"Prior to embarking on the main phase of their Social Investment Fund Project, the Moldavians are here seeking to learn lessons from JSIF. This is in light of the recognition that JSIF's work has received in the international arena," she said.
The high level delegation includes the Moldova Social Investment Fund's Executive Director Boris Popadiuc as well as the Director of Community Development Ms. Ludmilla Malcoci and the Director of the Micro Project Department, Mr. Alexandru Ursul.
The aim of the study tour is for the Moldavians to examine JSIF methodologies in implementing community based development initiatives. Special emphasis will be placed on the processes for empowering communities and promoting partnership with local and central government, the private sector, NGOs and donor agencies. The itinerary will include visits to various JSIF projects across the island as well meetings with JSIF's management team and project officers.
The Moldavians have indicated that they hope to be able to imitate JSIF's well-developed models and procedures to carry out projects in their home country. The delegation will be in the island until Saturday, November 30.
The Jamaica Social Investment Fund was established in 1996 as part of the Government's Poverty Eradication programme.
Since its inception, JSIF has invested more than two billion dollars in community development projects. The primary area of focus has been the creation, improvement and rehabilitation of social and economic infrastructure in the country's poorest communities.
JSIF's numerous projects have aided the provision of critical social services including health, sanitation, education, water supply and skills training.
