Technology Competition

Another brainstorm... seeking feedback

How about holding a national competition to produce certain technologies, such as sustainable water pumps; wind, water or solar power generators, etc. The participants would be college and university students, and the reward would be an opportunity to mass produce their inventions for use throughout the country. This way we can build capacity and produce technology locally that can be used in community development projects that we are involved in throughout the country.

We could hold a similar competition for business development, perhaps around the different technologies.

Thoughts? Please???

John

I see the light

First of all, I want to urge everyone to order the No-Nonsense Guides (to World Poverty, Globalization and International Development, in the very least). Mind blowing and eye-opening stuff.

I have seen that Development=Globalization=Capitalism=Neo-Colonialism=Imperialism.

Lets see what dictionary.com says about these terms:

development
1. The act of developing.
2. The state of being developed.
3. A significant event, occurrence, or change.
4. A group of dwellings built by the same contractor.
5. Determination of the best techniques for applying a new device or process to production of goods or services.

globalization
1. To make global or worldwide in scope or application.
2. growth to a global or worldwide scale; "the globalization of the communication industry"

neo-colonialism
A policy whereby a major power uses economic and political means to perpetuate or extend its influence over underdeveloped nations or areas: “Strong elements of neocolonialism persist in the economic relations of the rich and poor countries” (Scientific American).

capitalism
An economic system in which the means of production and distribution are privately or corporately owned and development is proportionate to the accumulation and reinvestment of profits gained in a free market.

imperialism
1. The policy of extending a nation's authority by territorial acquisition or by the establishment of economic and political hegemony over other nations.
2. The system, policies, or practices of such a government

neo-colonialism
A policy whereby a major power uses economic and political means to perpetuate or extend its influence over underdeveloped nations or areas: “Strong elements of neocolonialism persist in the economic relations of the rich and poor countries” (Scientific American).

In light of this, I am a bit concerned, and wondering if perhaps the word "development" is still appropriate for our organization. I would greatly appreciate input from the African members of this group on your perspectives.

Peace