10.3.2. Policy: IWRM and regional integration shall be promoted in water sector education and training with special emphasis on youth All opportunities to incorporate IWRM and regional integration should be actively encouraged and promoted wherever possible. This includes initiatives for the promotion of formal education and training programmes on the one hand and, on the other, informal training or mentoring, twinning and exchange or secondment opportunities between regional, public, non-governmental and private sector water institutions. This also relates to educational programmes within the water sector and at regional centres of excellence aimed at enhancing the concept (and practice) of regional integration. 10.4 Research, Technology Development and Transfer 10.4.1. Policy: A regional perspective for effective and efficient demand-driven water sector research and technology development shall be adopted in the region. Research and technology development is generally fragmented and mainly geared towards addressing national issues. There is a need for these activities to address the specific challenges facing the SADC Water Sector regionally. This requires improved communication and collaboration between academic, research and scientific institutions. It is important that research is needs driven, focuses on local solutions and appropriate technology, and follows a coherent and coordinated approach. 10.4.2. Policy: Member States shall share appropriate water technology and information as a means of building capacity and integration. Sharing of water related technology and information is a vital step towards regional integration and cooperation, both in terms of building regional capacity and in developing common understanding, synergy and trust between Member States and institutions. - 53 -