Theme 5: Communicating Agricultural Science and Technology Indicators: Lessons Learned [Article and Abstract]

Abstract

This paper discusses the strategy of the Agricultural Science and Technology Indicators( ASTI) initiative toward communicating agricultural S&T information and trends at global, regional, and national levels. To understand the contribution of agricultural S&T to agricultural growth, quantitative information is fundamental. Indicators derived from such information allow the performance, inputs, and outcomes of agricultural S&T systems to be measured, monitored, and benchmarked. These indicators assist S&T stakeholders in formulating policy, setting priorities, and undertaking strategic planning, monitoring, and evaluation. One of the few sources of information on agricultural S&T statistics in low and middle income countries is the Agricultural Science and Technology Indicators (ASTI) initiative. Since 2001, ASTI has been active in compiling, analyzing, and publicizing data on institutional developments, investments, and capacity trends in agricultural S&T in low- and middle income countries worldwide. ASTI is generally recognized as the most authoritative source of information on the structure, financing, and capacity of agricultural S&T worldwide, and its outputs have been widely cited in international agricultural research policy documents. Based on lessons learned since the inception of the ASTI initiative, a number of approaches have been developed to enhance the dissemination and usage of ASTI outputs, including the formation of strong partnerships, the tailoring of information to different stakeholders, and the creation of an interactive data tool on the ASTI website.