Taking Action Through Pilot Projects Within PWS: “Learning Through Doing”

Through the work of the Public Weather Service (PWS) Programme of the WMO over the years, much knowledge has been accumulated in various aspects of PWS and spread to Members through conventional training methods such as workshops, conferences, and publication of guidelines. However, some Members, particularly developing countries including Least Developed Countries, still find themselves ineffective in dealing with challenges in PWS brought by rapid urbanization, economic globalization, environmental degradation, natural hazards, and the threats from climate change. To assist these Members in enhancing their PWS capabilities, the PWS OPAG initiated a new thrust by embarking on Pilot Projects based on the concept of “Learning Through Doing”. The idea is that the PWS OPAG will select a small group of countries, and arrange for mentoring agents to work alongside the staff of the relevant NMHSs in assisting them to improve their communication with users in selected target sectors, and to develop and deliver an improved range of products and services which would enhance the socio-economic benefits provided through the NMHSs to Members. Details of the realization of such Pilot Projects, including the planning, implementation and review processes, are described in the paper.