REDP collaborates with the University of Flensburg, Germany
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between Rural Energy Development Programme/ UNDP and the University of Flensburg in Germany under their degree course on 'Sustainable Energy System and Management' (SESAM) for academic collaboration. The MoU was signed between the two organizations in recognition of the importance of sustainable development and exchange of experience at international level. With this agreement, the two organizations have entered into a partnership that will foster academic, technical and intercultural exchange in the areas of mutual interest.

Both institutions have agreed to collaborate in academic and research programmes. The assistance focuses on cooperation in capacity building, cooperation in the R&D of suitable rural energy technology, the publication of related results and experience in books and journals, establishment of mutual research project, and research on the impact of Micro Hydro Schemes on socio-economic development of villages and other projects considered pertinent by both institutions.

As per the proposed collaboration, REDP will provide access to its experience on rural energy achievements in the districts as the 'field lab' SESAM. SESAM on the other hand will help in building skills and capacity and provide professional expertise

Degrees relevant to international co-operation and development have been taught at the University of Flensburg for 15 years. The concept of SESAM is oriented towards the requirement of rural development with a focus on the design, extension of appropriate technologies as well as the renewable energy sources of energy and management of projects. From the beginning an interdisciplinary approach was selected.

REDP is implemented to enhance better rural livelihoods and preserve the natural environment by supporting micro-hydro, solar and biogas as entry points for rural energy systems' development. UNDP has been supporting the His Majesty's Government of Nepal through REDP since August 1996.

The programme supports the government in (1) institutionalization of a rural energy development agency and formulation of policies; (2) capacity building at the district level to plan and manage rural energy systems; and (3) mobilizing community organizations and private entrepreneurs to plan, implement and operate rural energy systems. The programme is based on decentralized management of development efforts with emphasis placed on community organizations or private entrepreneurs to manage rural energy development. The guidance for community-managed efforts is provided from the district level with the involvement of the DDC, VDCs. line agencies, private sector organizations and NGOs. At the central level, coordination among different departments and ministries is ensured. Programme support is used to develop the energy sector with the participation of the beneficiaries in its multifaceted form and as a cross-sectorial issue. The development of micro-hydro power development with the effective utilization of water resources and, hence, its linkage with irrigation, water supply, sanitation, agriculture, natural resources (biomass coverage) and cottage industries is emphasized.