Contribution of scaling up nutrition Academic Platforms to nutrition capacity strengthening in Africa: local efforts, continental prospects and challenges
2017
Addressing contemporary nutrition problems often require application of knowledge from
multiple disciplines. The scaling up nutrition (SUN) movement harnesses multiple sectors
for effective global and in-country planning and implementation. Although the role of knowl-
edge networks (academia and research institutions) is recognised, the how of engaging knowl-
edge networks in the current SUN architecture is only now becoming apparent. For relevant
sectors to play their roles effectively, observed capacity gaps, particularly in developing coun-
try settings, need to be addressed. The present paper presents the work being undertaken by the
Ghana SUN Academic Platform, a local knowledge network, towards strengthening nutrition
capacity in Ghana. The Platform presently provides technical support, evidence and capacity
towards scaling up effective nutrition interventions in Ghana and beyond. The data presented
draws heavily on the observations and collective experiences of the authors in practice, com-
plemented by a review of relevant literature. The ultimate goal of the AP is to build capacity
of professionals from nutrition and cognate sectors (including planning, agriculture, health,
economics, research and academia). This is an essential ingredient for effective and
durable SUN efforts. The paper recognises that both disciplinary and interdisciplinary
capacity is required for effective SUN efforts in Africa, and offers an approach that utilises
cross-sector/inter-professional, peer-learning and experiential learning initiatives.
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