ABSTRACT
This chapter concentrates on the functional dimension of the NGO–NARS links. It discusses what sorts of linkage mechanisms might be used to allow more efficient two-way flows of technical information between institutions, and to strengthen the contributions of NARS and NGOs to the generation of technologies that are relevant to campesinos. The chapter provides a framework for the analysis of linkage mechanisms between NARS and NGOs. The dominant model for ATD in Latin America has been the public-sector National Research Institute, in which a single institutional actor is responsible for the functions of all three sub-systems. CESA seeks to find a middle way between ethno-development and Green Revolution strategies, represented in Ecuador by the CAAP and National Institute of Agricultural Research, respectively. In the north of the Cauca Department of Colombia, FUNDAEC has carried out research into alternative production systems for campesinos since 1973.
