Cablegate: Globe (Global Learning and Observations To

This record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available.

UNCLAS COLOMBO 000092

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: KGLB SENV MV CE OEXC
SUBJECT: GLOBE (Global Learning and Observations to
Benefit the Environment) Program Update: Sri Lanka
and Maldives

REF: State 06351

1. Below is the GLOBE program update for Sri Lanka
and Maldives:

Sri Lanka
---------

2. Post is pleased to report the implementation of
the GLOBE program in Sri Lanka. The Ministry of
Human Resource Development, Education and Culture
(MHREC) conducted the first three GLOBE teacher-
training programs in late 2002. Econ Officer and
USAEP director attended the inaugural training
workshop and formally presented training kits to
attendees. As of early January 2003, 42 secondary
school teachers have been trained in GLOBE
protocols and computer use. In addition, GLOBE
clubs have been formed in about 30 schools. The
GLOBE program is now being implemented in these
schools.

3. Although Sri Lanka signed the GLOBE agreement in
December 1999 and 4 trainers attended an
international workshop, actual implementation of
the program was delayed for several years due to
government budgetary constraints. In 2002, Post
provided a $20,000 (Rs 2.18 million) grant to the
Sri Lanka GLOBE program from funds available under
an earlier PL416(B) food aid grant. MHREC is
utilizing these funds for conducting teacher-
training workshops. In addition, a recent USAEP
grant enabled an officer in charge of the GLOBE
program at MHREC to attend this month's training
workshop in New Zealand. Her attendance is
expected to give a further boost to the
implementation of the program in Sri Lanka. Post
will continue to support GLOBE through USAEP
assistance and informal supervision and guidance.

Maldives
--------

4. The Government of Maldives notified Post in
2002 that it is ready to sign the GLOBE agreement.
Once the amended agreement, changing the US party
from NOAA to NASA, is approved, Post expects to
begin arrangements for a signing ceremony with the
Maldivian government.

Wills

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