Ken had this to say, "we learnt from the experts as for me, this is the most important factor and corresponds to what we need as policy makers. The team exercises were very good as it enabled us to prepare policy recommendations in the case study that was presented in the class. But the simulation exercise on trade negotiations in trade in services was the best one. It is a real case study that reflected the reality of our work and one that looks at trade and development particularly in term of the trends of globalization." Anna agreed, "the modules were interlinked and built on the lessons and knowledge learned from the previous module. What we learned throughout the three weeks was put to the test and challenged in a simulation exercise on the last day."
All four participants also complemented how they had learnt from each other and from other participants who had much to share in terms of their experience and knowledge. "The course allowed us to establish an important network amongst the participants. We learnt and understood from each other the importance of policy coordination, an issue that we face daily in our work", said Ken. Both Yen and Sanjeewa agreed, "We learnt a lot from the participants who made us feel strongly that all nations in the world, when they work hand in hand, can aim for a world free of poverty". Anna had this to say," it was a very interactive and intense and we were required to carry out research and submit short papers before the course. During the course, we had to carry out numerous activities in groups and present their findings to the rest of the participants. We learned the value of communication and coordination amongst ourselves in fulfilling the various activities that were required of us in each module. When the course ended, I had learned a lot more than what I had set out to achieve from the course." Sanjeewa added, "for me, it was the best training course I ever attended" and all four added that, "we have to thank UNCTAD, ESCAP and the Singapore Cooperation Program for that".
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