BACKGROUND
In 2023, the GMS Knowledge Network conducted a stocktaking study to identify priority sectors, themes, and initiatives to strengthen knowledge cooperation. One key outcome of the study was the recommendation to establish an integrated Knowledge for Innovation (KFI) Program to deliver targeted knowledge services and products for the GMS.
The priority theme endorsed by the GMS Senior Officials’ Meeting and GMS Knowledge Network Steering Committee Members for the KFI Program 2025 is “Sustainable and Inclusive Agrifood Systems.”
The Knowledge for Innovation Program 2025 is a multi-component initiative designed to advance knowledge, innovation, and digitalization in priority GMS sectors. It comprises seven interlinked components:
- Network Development and Knowledge Mapping
- Envisioning and Agenda-Setting
- Capacity Building and Training (KIM Certification Course)
- Policy Brief Development and Knowledge Cafés
- Communities of Practice
- GMS Knowledge Online Portal
- Concluding Conference
The priority theme endorsed by the GMS Senior Officials’ Meeting and GMS Knowledge Network Steering Committee Members for the KFI Program 2025 is “Sustainable and Inclusive Agrifood Systems.”
ORIENTATION SESSION AND EXPERT DIALOGUE
Date: 6 February 2026 (13:00 – 15:30, GMT+7)
Venue: Zoom
The purpose of the orientation session and expert lecture in January 2026 are:
- Introduce the GMSKN and KFI Program
- Clarify the technical meeting objectives and policy brief development process
- Present how policy briefs support GMS Working Groups
- Introduce the three Communities of Practice and expert advisors
- Begin initial discussions on: background context for each topic; issues to be addressed;
- potential data sources and availability; and decide on the leading and supporting contributors of the policy briefs and their roles
This session will also include a 1-hour expert lecture on policy brief structure, writing style, data requirements, and methodology.
COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE MEETINGS
Date: February 2026 (Dates to be determined with each CoP)
Venue: Zoom
Depending on the policy brief development and needs, the GMS Knowledge Network will coordinate each CoP to self-organize a meeting among each CoP in February 2026 to:
- consult with the expert advisor who will guide each CoP throughout the policy brief development process
- review draft sections
- receive inputs from the government representatives and Working Group on Agriculture members to ensure the policy briefs are demand-drive and respond to the actual knowledge needs of the governments and working groups.
The exact timing of the second meeting in February will be decided based on the availability of each of the CoP member. The GMS Network will coordinate the meeting schedules with each CoP.
POLICY DEVELOPMENT TECHNICAL MEETING: KNOWLEDGE CAFE SESSIONS
Date: 28-29 April, 2026
Venue: Ha Noi, Viet Nam
The in-person technical meeting will adopt the Knowledge Café format, an interactive and participatory method that enables experts and practitioners to exchange experiences, validate insights, and cocreate policy solutions within a short time frame.
Each policy brief topic will undergo a dedicated Knowledge Café session. All participants will
- review and refine the draft outlines and early findings developed by the Communities of Practice,
- contribute country-specific insights and evidence, and
- ensure the policy briefs reflect demand-driven priorities and the actual knowledge needs of GMS Working Groups and governments.
This participatory approach strengthens policy relevance, improves quality, ensures the published policy briefs responds to the knowledge needs of the GMS governments and enhances the likelihood of policy uptake.
EXPECTED OUTPUTS
- Three policy briefs developed by participating individuals and institutions.
- Templates and guidelines provided to participants for developing policy briefs and other knowledge products.
- Strengthened collaboration among research institutions, government agencies, private sector actors, and development partners
TARGET PARTICIPANTS
The technical meeting is designed for:
- Government ministries and agencies working on agriculture, trade, innovation, and sustainable development;
- Academic and research institutions, including think tanks and policy centers;
- Development partners and regional networks supporting sustainable and inclusive agrifood transformation in the GMS.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Ms. Myat Myat Mon
Coordinator
GMS Knowledge Network
Mekong Institute
[email protected]
Ms. Anusara Tanpitak
Manager
Communications and Knowledge Management
Mekong Institute
[email protected]
Mr. Antonio Ressano
Principal Regional Cooperation Specialist
Southeast Asia Department
Asian Development Bank
[email protected]
