Dear Managers,

2007 will undoubtedly prove to be a year of challenges. On the operational front we are going to see IRSS move into a higher gear and we will learn to work differently, using both SAP and HR4U, and enhance our services to IWMI.

You know that we will be developing the Training Calendar for 2007 based on the inputs identified in the PR&DP forms, but we are asking for your input in advance, to help us prioritize and plan for any training activities that you have in the pipeline for 2007. Please use the attached Excel sheet to list specific priority items for the staff in your region, division, dept./unit. Please also keep in mind these inputs when you discuss training with each individual staff member.

Based on your recommendations and inputs received from the Pr&DP forms, we will consolidate and present a draft training calendar to the IWMI Management, based on the budget allocation for 2007. We will share with you the approved plans along with the plans which are not approved including the reasons. The objective is to ensure complete transparency in finalizing the annual training calendar. As usual, we will roughly apportion 75% for operational/admin. costs, and 25% for staff time. Also, staff time will be absorbed by the training budget on the following basis:

1/2 to 1 day: in full

2 to 4 days: 1 to 3 days

5-7 days: 3 to 5 days

What are some of the group /individual training programs that we envisage for 2007?

First Level Leadership Development Program (FLDP): The course will be in it's 3rd year and is a standard now at the associate CG Centers. We hope to be able to combine any programs with the follow-up programs for training courses conducted in 2005 and 2006. This is an excellent opportunity for IWMI staff with supervisory and leadership responsibilities.

Women in Leadership: We look forward to receiving the 2007 G&D Training Calendar which will take into account the input from the e-Conference held in September.

The IWMI Project Management Course: During the 2nd Quarter of 2007.

The G&D Mentoring program: We want to place special emphasis on research mentoring and plan to give you an introduction to the concept and an opportunity to discuss your plans with a G&D Trainer.

Soft Skills Training: This will of course be based on identified needs, and planned for staff at headquarters and across regional offices.

Language skills: Again these will be specific to work-related needs.

What other courses do you suggest that we arrange? Your input is requested.

Looking forward to your responses by 15th December 2006.

Carl
