Key Achievements in 2005

Planning System-Level Priorities and Strategies and Conducting Perspective Studies on System Priorities

The SC submitted the report System Priorities for CGIAR Research 2005-15 in November 2005. The plan was approved and endorsed by CGIAR members at the AGM in December 2005. The document reflects prioritization of CGIAR research to contribute directly or indirectly to seven of the eight Millennium Development Goals. The priority-setting process will foster a more cohesive and better focused high-quality research program for greater impact of the CG system in alleviating poverty, hunger, and malnutrition. The 20 system research priorities will be gradually implemented and mainstreamed in each Center's MTP.

Implementation of the Mobilizing Science Strategy

One of the major accomplishments of the mobilizing science strategy was the first Science Forum, which took place at the 2005 AGM. The forum covered system priorities in a series of parallel sessions consisting of a keynote speaker, co-chairs, and discussants. The Science for Agricultural Development biennial publication also was prepared and launched at AGM.

Implementation of New M&E Processes

The SC Secretariat prepared the document Monitoring and Evaluation System for the CGIAR Centers and published it in September 2005. It presents drawbacks of the previous M&E system, a framework for improving M&E of Centers, and terms of reference for EPMRs. The framework was endorsed at ExCo in September 2005 and approved by CGIAR soon thereafter.

Collaboration with Other SO Units

Development and Implementation of a Performance Measurement System for the SC and CGIAR Secretariats

New elements and indicators have been jointly discussed and approved for implementation in 2006.

Guidelines for MTPs and Financing Plans

The SC and CGIAR Secretariats prepared the Guidelines for Preparing the 2006-8 Medium-Term Plans and the 2006 Financing Plans in March 2005. The document explains the use of a logic framework for planning research. The framework's basis is an output-focused approach that links outputs to outcomes, and then outcomes to program impact. Centers have gradually incorporated this framework into their MTPs and are expected to continue to do so.

Supporting the communication of CGIAR Science Council work and CGIAR impact (in collaboration with the CGIAR Secretariat Communication Team)

In collaboration with the CGIAR Secretariat's Communication Team several briefs on system priorities and impact studies were prepared. A media announcement and media conference were prepared for the Science for Agricultural Development publication during the AGM. Informative posters also were prepared for the SC booth at AGM.