Round 2: Sharing of key challenges

Summary

Dr Jayatilaka shared that there is a need for coherence in institutions in the think tank network. This can be done by creating a platform where think tanks share the work that they are doing. This can help in networking and building connections.

The generation of knowledge takes place in different spheres of life and work but is not being shared effectively. Thus, we need a network to share and discuss knowledge and action plans. This would help regional agendas to synthesise this knowledge into a product.

Dr Suleri pointed out that an increased focus on the Sustainable Development Goals is required. As a result of the pandemic, governments are focusing on impoverished sections of society and this momentum must be kept.

Further utilisation of virtual platforms is needed to compensate for the loss of physical networking opportunities. This can be done through informal meetings and round tables.

Dr Khatun, emphasised the role that data plays in making efficient interventions to arrive at the right decisions. Data is also important to target the right social beneficiaries. She discussed the use of medium-term strategies to grapple with COVID-19-related uncertainties. It is important that the exchange and sharing of knowledge between South Asian countries should become prevalent. In addition, understanding the sustainability of think tanks, and how they will function when their funds and objectives are jeopardised, as was seen in during the pandemic, should be addressed.

Kanchan Mani Dixit pointed out that small interactions with minimal funds helps networking and knowledge production, and Nepal has not participated in many such interactions and looks forward to more conferences.

Enrique Mendizabal, founder of On Think Tanks commented that the following needs to be addressed:

• Creating and emphasising networking and knowledge sharing opportunities
• Discussing the specific effect of COVID-19 on staff, women, and financial sustainability — how do these contexts affect think tanks themselves?

Observations from discussants

Jai Asundi 

• Infrastructure issues — the need for digital infrastructure and its development.
• Sustainability — the need for self-sustaining in operation and provision of value to society. This can be brought about through collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Nitin Pai 

• There will be a large flow of funds in public health and digital technology — we must align ourselves to the same.
• We should not rely on the state to provide data — third-party organisations will be required to gain this data.
• Invest in persuasion; swinging public opinion through interesting and innovative means is extremely important.

Think tanks and change

From think tank to change hub
Keynote by Anne-Marie Slaughter, CEO of New America

How do think tanks react to or foster change?
Read the OTT Annual Review 2020–2021