YK Poudel

Some 57 innovators and researchers from 53 countries around the world are currently participating in a Global Innovation Fest in Thimphu to codify sustainable development solutions for global challenges.

The four-day research and development event, hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bhutan, was convened to test and refine sustainable development solutions before scaling them to tackle global issues.

During the event, the participants discussed and compiled a catalogue of best practices, encompassing tools, methods, tactics, values, and theories essential for practitioners both within and beyond UNDP in the last five years.

UNDP Bhutan made a presentation on Bhutan’s innovation ecosystem and private sector partnerships in experimentation.

Speaking at the event, the Resident Representative for UNDP Bhutan, Mohammad Younus, emphasised the event’s role in fostering exchange and learning among global innovators.

He said that UNDP is promoting innovative approaches to development around the world through Accelerator Labs networks that tap into grassroots innovation in those countries.

Covering 114 countries, the UNDP Accelerator Labs operates as a globally distributed research and development capability for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

“This event  is a great platform to exchange experiences and learn from each other, and share innovative ideas,  knowledge and solutions for tackling multi-faceted development challenges facing the world,” Mohammad Younus said.

The Deputy Head of economic cooperation and development, Embassy of Germany in India, Caren Blume, said that Germany would continue supporting such initiatives that promote sustainable development and innovation  through collaborative efforts. “The Codification Fest is an inspiring example of how global partnerships can lead to impactful solutions.”

Globally, the UNDP Accelerator Labs have identified over 6,000 grassroots-led solutions across all 17 SDGs, engaging with over 1,500 partners.

The initiative is supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, the Qatar Fund for Development, and other agencies.

The Global Innovation Fest concludes today.