Fostering collaboration between researchers and non-governmental organizations on women and AIDS in Jamaica

Reports findings of a study of researchers and community-based NGOs in Jamaica and a forum held to build stronger bonds between persons from the two groups. Presents the objectives of the project which were to: document and analyze research efforts on women and AIDS and the program experiences of NGOs with the aim of identifying progress in research and successful interventions that could be replicated in other settings; identify the lessons learned from existing collaborations between the research and action communities; conduct a forum in which researchers and NGOs could share their experiences and needs, as well as to identify ways to strengthen communication and collaboration. In addition disseminate to researchers, NGOs, policy makers, and donors at the national and international level, the findings from analyzing the progress in research and program experience, as well as the lessons learned from the collaborative process. Suggests the need for: training and educating women and men about HIV/AIDS; collaboration among NGOs, churches and public institutions; a central pool of research findings and materials; more research; and more funding for more programs(AU)