Maldives participates in the SDG Knowledge Exchange Programme which is being held in Manila, Philippines from October 2 to 4.
This event aims to bring policy makers and Asian Pacific broadcasters together to exchange experiences and lessons on sustainable rural development and the financing of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDG Knowledge Exchange Programme, organised by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), commenced on October 2, with the participation of more than 250 international participants and SDG Leaders from 45 countries and regions. The participants would share views, vision and challenges regarding the implementation of SDGs in their respective countries and regions.
The Maldivian delegation comprises of officials from Ministry of Environment and Energy, National Bureau of Statistics, United Nations Development Programme Male' Office, Public Service Media and participants from the Maldivian civil society. During the programme, Maldives will share the experiences in implementing the SDGs and experiences in presenting, especially as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS). The delegation from Maldives will also share the process and experiences of the voluntary national review. Information exchanged on localising and prioritising the SDGs will be useful to Maldives, according to the delegation attending the programme.
The event will be followed by 2 other forums, one focusing on financing for SDGs and the other on data and statistics which will be attended by National Bureau of Statistics. In addition to these forums, side events will be held which will be attended by PSM and the civil society.
This event was introduced in the spirit of the Qingdao Declaration on Media and the World's Sustainable Development, passed at the 14th Asia Media Summit in Qingdao. Under the declaration, Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) proposed to organise a series of programmes together with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The move is to create greater awareness and understanding of SDGs among members through dissemination of information. This event is the second forum in series of UNDP-AIBD partnership.
The Knowledge Exchange Programme will highlight best practices on how governments and local communities are integrating the SDGs into planning, financing and implementation systems, strengthening outreach and awareness and contextualizing the 2030 Agenda within national and local development. The event will showcase lessons and experience from across the entire region, providing an array of examples which participating broadcasters can draw from to help communicate the SDGs to their respective audiences.