A core group of NRI staff, with particular experience in issues of livelihoods and institutions, runs an annual Social Development course, in collaboration with Imperial College at Wye. We have designed and delivered short courses in participatory research methodology and participatory natural resource management, and we have delivered training in livelihoods analysis and participatory systems-based approaches, and their application, in such diverse locations as India, Nigeria, South Africa and Moldova. Other related skills in which we offer training include project-cycle management, and the design and facilitation of strategic planning processes.

In many of its theme work areas, NRI has a long-established reputation for the delivery of training in support of the continuing professional development of natural resource specialists in developing countries (and in the development agencies of national and international donors), and many of our staff working in these countries have used national printing and broadcasting media to disseminate advice and information. We also have well-established experience in using extension agents, local radio, commercial agents, posters and leaflets to promote and disseminate development messages. The global revolution in information and communication technology provides us with novel opportunities to promote innovations to policy makers and development workers through global telecommunications networks.