ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF INCAP

Transcription

1 INSTITUTE OF NUTRITION OF CENTRAL AMERICA AND DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF INCAP 2011 Dominican Republic March 3, 2011 Approved by Directing Council LXI Resolution

2 Wisdom is knowing what to do next; Skill is knowing how to do it, and Virtue is doing it David Starr Jordan ( ) American educator and ichthyologist Professional Staff INCAP 2011 Regulations updated according to Directing Council resolutions: LXV April 25, 2014 and LXVI April 29,

3 Contents I. Introduction... 4 II. Legal Base... 5 III. Institutional Strategic Framework... 6 IV. Organization of INCAP... 8 V. Functional components A. Administration Unit B. Planning Unit C. Technical Unit of Chronic Diseases and Nutrition D. Technical Unit of Nutrition and Micronutrients E. Technical Unit of Human Resources Development F. Unit of Technical Cooperation to Countries VI. References

4 I. Introduction From the LV meeting of the Board of Directors of INCAP in 2004, is resolved to initiate a process of institutional strengthening of INCAP, within the framework of the five-year assessment established in their Basic Agreement (article LI). The Directing Council led this process in its various stages, including the administrative separation of PAHO/who, during the period and guided the reorganization of the institution in order to face the new challenges as an autonomous organization registered in the Central American Integration System. At present, the Directorate of the Institute has conducted a situational analysis that has allowed to reach the conclusion that it requires a functional organization, simple, agile and flexible which, from the perspective of development, current demands for cooperation in the region and human resource capacity current institutional, returns to the path of turning this institution into an agency serving the study and solution of problems related to food and nutrition in the region as a whole, and each of its member countries. Thus, from the definitions given by the organs of Institutional and Political Direction, responsible for the direction of INCAP, aspect regulated by the Board of Directors approving the amendments to the Basic Agreement at its regular meeting of January 27, 2009, in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, the design of a new organization was considered. This document describes the fundamental aspects of the organizational proposal, which, when approved by the Board, will govern institutional relations in the first phase of institutional relaunch. 4

5 II. Legal Base Central American governments and PAHO / WHO created INCAP on February 20, 1946, in order to study and propose solutions to problems of human nutrition in the region. Later, on December 14, 1949, the representatives of the Governments of El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala and PAHO, adopted the Protocol that should be annexed to the 1946 Convention, extending the duration of the INCAP for five years more from January 1, The Protocol expanded the purpose of INCAP indicating that it is to encourage and strengthen the development of the science of nutrition and its application in countries through scientific research in analysis of food, surveys of nutrition, clinical and biochemical studies, training of technical staff, collaboration with universities and institutions of agriculture in the region and with other scientific institutions related to this matter. On August 27, 1998, in the context of relevant political and technical events, the representatives of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama and PAHO, identified the need to renew INCAP and modify the Basic Agreement. On that opportunity it was decided that INCAP would be the leading Central America institution, self-sustaining and permanent in the field of food and nutrition, which should implement a set of policies, highlighting the following: i) Provision of technical assistance to countries for promoting the development of the operational capacity of national institutions in the field of food and nutrition; ii) Training and human resources development in food and nutrition; iii) Development of operational research organizing multinational networks, iv) Systematization, organization, dissemination and transfer of food and nutrition information for decision making and v) Mobilization of financial resources. It is also important to notice that in the decade of the 90 s it was favored as an institutional strategy, the Central American initiative on Promotion of Food and Nutrition Security, driven by the Ministers of health of the area, and adopted at the XIV Summit of Presidents of Central America. This strategy remains valid, given the magnitude and depth of the problems related to food and nutrition in the region it has come to stand as a national priority in each of the social agendas of governments, being necessary to move forward in the institutional development in order to enable each country to have a better response capacity. Moreover, following the guidelines of the Basic Agreement which entered into force on January 22, 2003, and in particular Articles VII and LI, the Directing Council of INCAP assessed the institutional performance, approved the plan for institutional strengthening in 2004 and coinciding with the launch of the guideline of PAHO / WHO of decoupling of the Pan American and Sub regional centers, determined in 2007 that the institution should initiate "the process of review and adjustment of the Basic Agreement of the Institute, in order to align with its new strategic framework ", as approved in the Council itself. In addition, the process of the proposed amendment of the articles on the involvement of PAHO / WHO as an administrator would be initiated. 5

6 At the Special Meeting held in San Salvador in June 2008, the Council resolved that INCAP as mature institution could separate from the administration of PAHO / WHO. Consequently, members of INCAP Directing Council would be responsible for selecting a Director. In accordance with the above process, the Directing Council approved modifications to the Internal Regulations of the Directing and Advisory Councils of INCAP in January 2009, the job description of Director of INCAP as well as the Roadmap which directed strengthening of INCAP, depending on the transition of the administration functions described above. At this meeting the Council took note of the progress in the formulation of the Institutional Strategic Plan and the Annual Operational Plan 2009, and recognized "the Executive Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Health (COMISCA) as a necessary mechanism from Central American Integration for the fulfillment of the mandates issued by the Meeting of Heads of State and Government of SICA and the Board of Ministers of Health, as well as the Unique Resolution from COMISCA of September 10, 2007 and amendments to COMISCA regulation in regard to the functions of the Secretariat to serve the Health Sector of Central America and the Dominican Republic, including the Advisory Councils and Board of INCAP. One of the first efforts of the Director of INCAP, once she was elected, refers to the review of several proposals that have been formulated during the transition period in terms of organizational design, taking into account the provisions of INCAP s Basic Agreement and its reforms. The Convention sets out the Directing bodies of the institution and empowering the Director, Article XX, paragraph 1), to administer the Institute according to its mission, functions, policies, plans, programs and specific projects which must be approved by the Directing Council of INCAP. In addition, the mandate of paragraph two of the same article, the Director is empowered to appoint technical, scientific and administrative staff, in accordance with existing rules and monitor their optimal functioning and development to comply with the work plan of INCAP. III. Institutional Strategic Framework The Directing Council of INCAP in its XLIX Meeting held on August 27, 1998, approved the Institutional Strategic Framework which is defined as institutional mission "INCAP, a specialized institution in food and nutrition, has the mission to support the efforts of Member States by providing technical cooperation to achieve and maintain food security and nutrition of their populations, through its basic functions of Research, Information and Communication, Technical Assistance, Training and Human Resources Development and Mobilization of Financial and Non- Financial Resources in order to support of its mission ". At the same time, the top Directing body established as Vision of the Institute that, "INCAP within the framework of the Central American integration is a leading, self-sustaining and permanent institution in the field of food and nutrition in Central America and beyond its borders. To achieve the vision and carry out the mission, the Institutional Strategic Framework was adopted on September 10, 2008 with the general objectives described below: 6

7 Perspective User Political Social Processes and Systems Human Resources Training Financial General Objectives To provide effective technical support to the Ministries of Health of Member States and COMISCA for the strengthening of its leading role in nutrition for health, as well as key stakeholders in developing their capacities for the implementation of the agreed agendas on Food Nutrition Security (FNS). To promote technical and scientific proposals of INCAP with the Ministries of Health of Member States of the Institute, COMISCA, PAHO and the SG- SICA. To promote actions and decisions based on scientific evidence relevant to the socio-economic and cultural reality to contribute to the protection and improvement of the nutrition of the population. To develop substantive and support processes with approach of impact, in a standardized and systematic way to obtain reliable, timely and high quality results. To ensure technical and human quality of the staff of INCAP, promoting the development of their skills and continuous improvement of their working conditions. To develop and implement strategies for managing revenues, expenses and investments to strengthen financially to INCAP, in order to ensure their sustainability and self sufficiency. It mentions the functions as well, separating them into two types: four substantive and two support functions, which are presented below: Substantive functions: To support the development of the technical and operational capacity of the Ministries of Health and COMISCA en the exercise of the governing functions in nutrition at the regional, national and local levels. To support COMISCA instrumentally in the exercise of its governing functions in nutrition at the regional level. To support the development of technical and operational capacity of key stakeholders for the implementation of the agenda in nutrition and its determinants at regional, national and local levels. To generate and disseminate knowledge in nutrition and its determinants. Support functions Lead, coordinate and control institutional development. 7

8 To ensure the financial, human, technological, logistical, information and infrastructure resources required to comply with its substantive functions. With the approval of the Institutional Strategic Framework were also approved as strategic guidelines of INCAP in the long term, the following: i) the approach to nutrition and its determinants such as institutional main line of action; ii) iii) iv) food and nutritional security strategy will remain as a work strategy; the development of INCAP's capacity to provide technical cooperation in nutrition and its determinants, strengthening its human resource competencies; development of staff competencies in management of processes of rectory and generation and dissemination of scientific and technical knowledge; v) the proactive role of the institution in implementing its technical cooperation in accordance with the new strategic framework, resources and agendas of the countries and, vi) the permanent search for financial sustainability of the institution. In this section is also desirable to highlight the approval by the Directive Council, of the institutional values, which are: i) the integrationist spirit ii) ethics and transparency; iii) equity iv) solidarity and v ) effectiveness. IV. Organization of INCAP The organization of INCAP includes the following components: the Political Directorate, the Directorate itself and Technical Operational Units. Institutional Political Directorate is composed of the Directive Council, the Advisory Council, External Advisory Committee and the Director. The Directing Council of INCAP is composed of all the Ministers of Health of member countries (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama and Dominican Republic), and the Director of PAHO / WHO. The functions of the Board are set forth in Article XV of the Basic Agreement and its amendments in accordance with Resolution II of LIX Council Meeting held in Tegucigalpa, Honduras on January 27, In accordance with the Rules of the Board approved, this Council will elect, each regular session, one Minister as Chairman and another as Vice President and the Director of INCAP will act as Secretariat Ex - Office of the 8

9 Council. In order to have an opinion on the consistency of administrative, financial and accounting processes with the regulations and standards, this entity has at its disposal the services of an external audit. Meanwhile, the Advisory Council as a primary role, to support the guidance and compliance of the resolutions of the Directing Council of INCAP regarding the work of the Institute, and monitor and evaluate systematically its technical cooperation programs. It consist of the General Directors of Health, or a senior representative designated by the country, and a representative of PAHO / WHO designated by the Director of the Pan American Sanitary Bureau. His other functions are set forth in the Article XXIII of the Basic Agreement of INCAP. Another important structure is the External Advisory Committee, as a technical-consultant responsible for providing advice and support for the fulfillment of the Institutional Strategic Framework in its scientific technical aspects. This Committee has as main purpose to enrich the science and technology agenda of the institution to identify those strategic projects required by the member countries in the common goal of contributing to the study and solution of problems of food and nutrition. The External Advisory Committee may be accompanied by ad hoc thematic groups to meet their objectives and functions. The Directorate of the Institute is held by an officer elected by the Directing Council in accordance with the procedures approved by this Council. The directorate of INCAP has the responsibility to ensure effective compliance with the guidelines of the Directing Council and the Basic Agreement, strategically and technically guiding the management of the Institute, contributing to the consolidation of the Institutional Strategic Framework and coordinates the members of the Technical Council of Directors. The Directorate is also responsible for ensuring compliance and development of strategic and operational processes of the Institute, promoting and following up on institutional relations with the organs of the Central American Integration System, COMISCA, Ministries of Health and other regional and international institutions with whom it maintains association. The Directorate establishes leadership and coordination relationships with each of the representatives of technical cooperation INCAP located in each country. Also, the Directorate has the Legal Department as support, which is an instance that allows analyzing and establishing the consistency of the agreements or letters of intent with the regulations of the countries and laws, regulations and internal rules, ensuring that each legal action is in accordance with law. Besides, the Directorate has the Institutional Ethics Committee which is governed by its own rules of procedure which is an instrument that has been developed in order to provide standards and procedures for the protection of human subjects involved in research promoted by INCAP in Central America, document still under review. Internal and External Audit activities are developed by external firms in the form of contracts, the External Audit Company goes through an approval process by the Directing Council and reports are presented annually to the Council. 9

10 The technical units of INCAP were created in order to facilitate the organizational management of the Institute, two of them are supportive: Planning and Administration and the remaining four are at the core support. Therefore, the technical units are part of the four institutional policies approved by the Directing Council (Council Resolutions 1990 and 1991), the six functions of the Strategic Framework, the three institutional programs and priority themes. These units are structures or instances of matrix organization that will respond, at every moment, to needs, priorities and opportunities of cooperation required by the Strategic Framework. They are, in fact, flexible organizational arrangements that incorporate in their work the content of the three programs of the institution: they can be created from a thematic priority or a basic institutional function. The overall purpose of the technical units is to generate, transfer and share knowledge, technologies and methodologies that contribute to the solution of problems of nutrition in Central America and Dominican Republic. Criteria were established for the creation of the units: a. - Organization of the Institute's unique capabilities (human resources, prestige and credibility, experience) b. - Needs of countries and the region, of opportunities and workspaces, c. - and the mandate received by the Directing Council or the Heads of State and Government of SICA. Technical units must have the following strengths: Convening power and influence on topics of nutrition and FNS in the countries and the region, Accumulated experience on generation and application of knowledge in relevant issues, 10

11 Human Resources Leadership and widespread recognition on the particular subject, Mobilization of financial resources as an strategy of self sustainability, Organizational Infrastructure established in the countries which enables the processes of technical cooperation, and Permanent working relationship with current and potential counterparts at the country and regional level. The medium directing line is formed by the technical unit coordinators, being as follows: i) Technical Unit of Chronic Diseases and Nutrition. ii) Technical Unit of Nutrition and Micronutrients. iii) Technical Unit of Human Resources Development. iv) Unit of Technical Cooperation to Countries. v) Planning Unit vi) Administration Unit. The first four are operative areas the last two, Planning and Administration are structures supporting the management of INCAP. As indicated above, the operating area of the institute consists of the following units: i) Technical Unit of Chronic Diseases and Nutrition; ii) Technical Unit of Nutrition and Micronutrients; iii) Technical Unit of Human Resources Development and iv) Unit of Technical Cooperation to Countries. This last units incorporates the Technical Cooperation Coordinators in each member country. Each technical unit is organized according to the level of development of the Institute. All units share as main function, the production and management of knowledge and technological development in each strategic area; as well as providing services of research, information and communication, formation and training of human resources and technical assistance in the fields of its competence. In order to fulfill their responsibilities, these technical units shall establish networks with government, academia, non government and private institutions in the member countries. In order to preserve the processes, the Technical Directing Council commented later (composed by the Director and the Coordinators of Technical Units), has as a main objective to align, coordinate 11

12 and harmonize the functions of each area and the discussion of strategies and institutional lines of work; this works as a filter and at the same time ensures no duplication of functions or tasks. The Technical Unit of Chronic Diseases and Nutrition works on the themes of prevention and control of non communicable chronic diseases related to nutrition and their risk factors. This unit is based in the following areas of work: i.- INCAP research center for the prevention of chronic diseases related to nutrition, which is an excellence center coordinated by INCAP with technical support of RAND corporation and Public Health Schools of the universities of Johns Hopkins, Michigan and Harvard. CIIPEC aims to improve the capabilities of the ministries of health and universities of Mesoamerica and Dominican Republic for the prevention of chronic diseases related to nutrition (e.g.: Type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and osteoporosis) and ii. - Laboratory of Physiology and body composition (LAFICC) which has the highest technology equipment in support of research, human resources training and production of information in response to the needs of member countries. As for the technical unit of nutrition and micronutrients, this area works nutrition in all its determinants and the safety of food with emphasis on micronutrients; its three areas of work are divided into: i.-the area of malnutrition and their determinants, which works both chronic and acute malnutrition, identifying the main lines of work and with an emphasis on technical support to the malnutrition reduction plans of the member countries, ii.-the Laboratories area is specialized in Biochemistry and food composition, it designs, trains professionals who require this service in the member countries, supporting programs of nutritional surveillance to countries and private sector as required. iii. - the work area of local food and nutrition security (local FNS) supported by the Center for Learning and Sharing of Knowledge as its main function the development of applied technologies to meet and interrelate the theoretical with the practical, primarily supporting the development municipalities on issues of food and nutrition security. The Technical Unit of Human Resources Development is the structure whose function is to formulate and implement the program of human resource development of the institution, ensuring that it is complied in accordance with established quality standards. To achieve this, the unit supports and provides guidance to the above described technical units on all issues identified in the design and implementation of planning and programming processes, the incorporation of technologies and development of specific methodologies in the field of human resources development ensuring the fulfillment of its goals. 12

13 This technical unit constitutes the cornerstone human resources development and training for the countries, it consists of two basic areas: i. - Distance Education and ii. - Centre for Advanced Studies in Food and Nutrition. This unit works closely with universities in the region through agreements, agreement letters, and also develops distance learning courses through the virtual classroom. The master's credits, diplomas or courses are academically endorsed by the University of San Carlos Guatemala, and therefore, the personnel working in this unit highly proficient in their areas of expertise, according to requests from member countries. Meanwhile, the Technical Cooperation Unit Countries has as main function the identification, prioritization, establishment of lines of cooperation and the mechanisms and procedures appropriate to ensure the institution's technical cooperation with member countries. Each of the technical units defined above, are headed by a Coordinator who is responsible for the design, integration, coordination and quality of each portfolio of services provided in each. The professional members of the technical units will be linked to external institutional networks and collaborate with the design, management, monitoring and evaluation of projects prioritized in terms of achieving the strategic objectives of INCAP. The Planning Unit is the lead structure of the processes conducting strategic planning, operational planning, monitoring and evaluation, production and dissemination of information documentation and information on food and nutrition service as well as the relationship with external actors. This area will also have the current capacity of the Computer Center for local, national and regional food and nutrition analysis among others. This area provides support directly to all other technical units that allow effectively monitoring and tracking all activities of INCAP. The Planning Unit is headed by a Coordinator and integrated by a group of professionals organized in the three following areas: i) Area of planning, monitoring and evaluation has as primary function the institutional strategic planning and to instruct each technical unit in institutional strategies and guidelines related to planning. Monitoring and evaluation have the components of epidemiological surveillance of nutritional support relying on the geographic information system (GIS) for Food Security and Nutrition (FNS) and Information System for surveillance, monitoring and evaluation of Food Security and Nutrition. These elements are tracers for the institution and constitute a priority for countries. 13

14 ii) iii) iv) Area of production and dissemination of information. In this area are located computer technology, organizing and following up on the website of the institution, technical support, and central storage of information on single servers. Part of this area is the Documentation and Information Center on Food and Nutrition, bearing the responsibility for coordinating, providing lines of work to organize information, methodologies for publications, while serving as a source of information throughout the scientific expertise of INCAP, this information can be concentrated in one area, allowing users to share it with users who need it. Resource mobilization Area: This area coordinates all efforts of resource mobilization, working closely with the technical units through coordination and harmonization of institutional work plans, to monitor the sustainability plan of INCAP including the strategies defined by the technical units of the institution. Research Center on Health, Nutrition and Protection of woman and children. Its objective is to generate, share and disseminate scientific and technical evidence from studies and interventions to facilitate timely knowledge, strategies, methodologies and appropriate technologies with participation of academic organizations and institutions working on related areas. Its work focuses in addressing needs and priorities emerging in the region in order to provide the decision makers, professionals and scientific community with inputs to contribute to the improvement of health and nutrition of vulnerable populations in Central America and Dominican Republic, as well as other countries that will benefit from the evidence generated through technical assistance and training. Finally, the Administration Unit whose function is to develop administrative and financial activities in direct support to the Director of INCAP. The overall objective of this area is to ensure that human, physical and financial resources are available in a timely manner for the performing of the various substantive activities of INCAP, being responsible for verifying the quality of this support. The Administration Unit is the organizational component whose function is to design, conduct, implement and evaluate from a financial perspective, the support given to the activities originated by the Director office, providing them with human and material resources in quantity and quality. It is also responsibility of this area, the development and implementation of short, medium and long term management of financial and human resources. The Administration Unit is internally organized into the following sections: i) Finance ii) Accounting and iii) Human and physical resources. 14

15 In order to ensure the functioning of the institution, the Director establishes the Technical Board composed of the Director of INCAP and the Coordinators of the technical units described above and coordinators of Planning and Administration Units. The essential function of the Technical Board of Directors is the monitoring and systematization of all the plans of work of the Institute, identifying critical points, and providing recommendations to the Director for decision-making. The Technical Board of Directors shall be governed by an internal regulation where the responsibilities of its members, precise mechanisms for agendas, the lifting of minutes and the periodicity of these schedules shall be specified. Each Technical Unit will organize technical councils to give technical follow the guidelines of the Director, the Technical Board of Directors and the work plans of each of 15

16 the areas. It will also promote the direct coordination between each of the established areas. The functioning of the Organization will be guaranteed in addition by adjusting to the economic framework, management of professionals and technicians and the implementation of a policy of quality in the institution. In the future, the direction of the INCAP may propose to the Board of Directors, the Organization of new technical units to respond to the demands of countries. 16

17 V. Functional components Administration Unit Overview It is the organizational component responsible for designing, conducting, implementing and evaluating from a financial perspective the support given to activities that come from the direction; planning and strategic area of food and nutrition providing them with human and material resources in amount, quality and timely manner. Also in charge of the preparation and implementation of strategies for short, medium and long term financial management and human resources. General Objective To ensure human resources, material and financial resources for timely implementation of various activities to be performed by the substantive components of INCAP, being responsible for checking the quality of support Functions: 1. Preparation of the preliminary draft budget with the correspondent instances of coordination. 2. To follow up on the implementation of the established budget plan. 3. Development and implementation of rules and procedures in its field of work. 4. To design, lead and implement a map of institutional risk allowing the identification of assumptions and their solutions. 5. To develop and lead the processes of financial audit in all its fields, following legal guidelines that support its implementation. 6. To provide technical assistance in the various fields of application. 7. Analyze together with the coordinators of components, advances and established contingency plans. 17

18 8. Prepare financial reports set out in a timely manner. 9. Managing Human Resources by applying rules, procedures and regulations including the performance evaluation. 10. Ensure the effective provision and management of goods and services, to respond to organizational needs of quantity, quality and timeliness, adherence to standards and procedures. 11. Ensure the integration, alignment and appropriate follow up of the management and impact of the Management team. Planning Unit Overview It is the leading component to develop institutional strategic planning supporting technical and operationally to the Director in the exercise of institutional leadership. It maintains the strategic guidelines of the Institute in accordance with regional and institutional policies and priorities based on the existing legal framework, managing and implementing concrete actions to support countries. It provides technical assistance in organizational development, institutional marketing and attention to the user. Leadership and its effectiveness depend on maximizing the impact of institutional actions in line with the strategic framework. One of the most important actions of this unit is the implementation of concrete actions for operational and scientific research supporting the development of effective interventions for the benefit of health and nutrition of the population of the region with emphasis on women and children. General Objective It ensures the effective implementation of the strategic planning and operation plans of the Institute in all its facets in coordination with Administration Unit and strategic area of Food and Nutrition. Functions 1. To develop and lead the processes of strategic and operational planning of the Institute. 2. To monitor and evaluate strategic and institutional plans in a systematic manner with an emphasis on the fulfillment of objectives and results. 18

19 3. To define organizational and functional strategies that will allow the Institute to comply with its commitments. 4. To identify gaps in technical assistance from countries that allows the Institute to direct its resources in all areas. 5. To establish mechanisms or procedures for the management of external cooperation of the Institute. 6. To establish the basic priorities of the countries in the area of technical assistance. 7. To ensure alignment between the institutional image, organizational identity, and the strategy of the Institute. 8. To design together with Strategic Area and Administration the portfolio of services provided by the institution. 9. To advise and issue technical criteria for the staff of the Institute in matters of public relations, advertising, marketing and press. 10. To promote institutional management actions necessary to ensure the institutional image. 11. To design the different protocols to satisfy the proper work areas and equipment for the user, according to the type of contact or service required. 12. To assess, update and continuously improve the compliance with the standards of quality in the processes of internal and external customer service. 13. To assess the degree of satisfaction of the user in relation to the provision of services in the different areas and in different countries. 14. To develop and implement the strategy of resource mobilization through the sustainability plan that will ensure a diversified and permanent source of revenue for all levels of the organization. 15. Contribute to the improvement of the health status of women and children through generation of scientific evidence, training and technical assistance in the regional, national and local levels. 19

20 Technical Unit of Chronic Diseases and Nutrition Overview The technical unit of chronic disease and nutrition is one of the essential structures for the institution; in charge of producing and managing knowledge in the strategic area of prevention and control of chronic non-communicable diseases and their risk factors, with the objective to produce research services, training of human resources, dissemination of information and facilitating the communication and technical advice in their field of knowledge which is particularly aimed at integrated strengthening of the health sector institutions and academic. The current organization of this unit is based on the definition of four thematic areas: epidemiological surveillance and monitoring of the quality of clinical care; evaluation of public policies and programs; development of models of intervention and programs for promotion of health, prevention and clinical care; and, dissemination and communication of relevant information in a timely manner. This technical unit has two areas of work: i. - INCAP research center for the prevention of chronic diseases related to nutrition CIIPEC in Mesoamerica and Dominican Republic and ii.- Laboratory of Physiology and body composition (LAFICC). CIIPEC is responsible for the development of research, training of human resources and technical assistance for comprehensive strengthening of the institutions of the health and academic sector interested in prevention and control of non-communicable chronic diseases and their risk factors, in the four thematic areas. LAFICC has the technical capacity which allows offering the cooperation required by the ministries of health, international cooperation agencies, NGOs and universities in member countries in the four thematic areas. The specialized service of the LAFICC focuses on the satisfaction of the user and includes the following lines of work: development and evaluation of programs with an emphasis on prevention and control of chronic diseases related to nutrition; strengthening of analytical capabilities in the region; analysis of body composition, status and physical activity, expenditure and intake of energy, clinical chemistry and cardiovascular health; and psychological tests of child development and mental health. It works in coordination with other technical units depending on the topic to be developed. General Objective Produce and disseminate scientific and technological knowledge in the strategic area of prevention and control of chronic diseases related to nutrition and their risk factors, providing services of research, training of human resources, dissemination of information and facilitating communication and technical advice in their field of knowledge, particularly the comprehensive strengthening of the institutions of the health and academia of member countries. 20

21 Functions 1. To produce knowledge in the strategic area of prevention and control of chronic diseases related to nutrition and their risk factors, with emphasis on four thematic areas: surveillance and epidemiological monitoring of the quality of clinical care; evaluation of public policies and programs; development of models of intervention and programs for promotion of health, prevention, and clinical care; dissemination and communication of relevant information and in a timely manner. 2. Managing the knowledge produced in order to fulfill the mission and vision of the Institute. 3. To organize networks and regional and local professional teams in the strategic area of prevention and control of chronic diseases related to nutrition and their risk factors, according to the institutional potential. 4. To design, manage and evaluate quality projects in the field of research, information and communication, formation and training of human resources and technical assistance in the priority areas according to the overall strategic plan of the institution, being aware that the portfolio of services may be modified according to changes in the Institute. 5. To promote the scientific and technical development of health professionals and researchers of the institution involved in the processes of knowledge production and delivery of services in the strategic area of prevention and control of chronic diseases related to nutrition and their risk factors. 6. To formulate plans, projects, reports, balance sheets and reports of the performance of the area, according to the institutional rules and procedures. 7. To establish coordination mechanisms among professionals in each of the thematic areas of prevention and control of chronic diseases related to nutrition and their risk factors. 8. To facilitate cooperation among research professionals for the achievement of institutional outcomes. 9. To promote the incorporation of innovations for the achievement of results. 10. To coordinate the design, management and evaluation of the projects in its area of competence. 11. To submit plans, balances and memories of its technical unit, in coordination with the Planning Unit. 21

22 Technical Unit of Nutrition and Micronutrients Overview The Technical Unit of Nutrition and Micronutrients is another important part of the structure of the institution responsible for producing and manage knowledge, as well as the production of research, education and training, information and consulting services in their area of knowledge. The current organization is based on the definition of two thematic areas: nutrition and micronutrients, with three working areas: i.-the area of malnutrition which works on both acute and chronic malnutrition and their determinants, ii.-the area of laboratories specializes in Biochemistry and composition of foods, iii. Area of local food and nutritional security, supported by the Centre for Learning and Exchange of Knowledge; its main function is based on the development of applied technologies to comply and interrelating theory and practice. General Objective To produce scientific and technological knowledge in the strategic area of food and micronutrients (nutrition); providing research and information services, education, training and consultancy in the fields of its competence at the regional, national and local levels. Functions 1. To produce scientific knowledge in the strategic area of food and nutrition with an emphasis on micronutrients. 2. To manage knowledge according to the fulfillment of the mission and vision of the Institute. 3. To organize networks and professional teams in the area of food and nutrition according to the institutional potential. 4. To design, manage and evaluate quality in research and information projects; education, training and technical assistance in the thematic areas prioritized according to the strategic plan of the institution, on being aware that the portfolio of services may be amended according to changes in the Institute. 5. To promote the scientific and technical development of professionals and researchers of the institution involved in the processes of knowledge production and delivery of services in the strategic area of food and nutrition. 22

23 6. To formulate plans, projects, reports, balance sheets and reports of the performance of the area, according to the institutional rules and procedures. 7. To establish coordination mechanisms among professionals in each of the thematic areas of food and nutrition. 8. To facilitate cooperation among research professionals for the achievement of institutional outcomes. 9. To promote the incorporation of innovations for the achievement of results. 10. To coordinate the design, management and evaluation of the projects in its area of competence. 11. To submit plans, balances and memories of its technical unit, in coordination with the Planning Unit. 23

24 Technical Unit of Human Resources Development Overview The Technical Unit of Human Resources Development is structured considering the performance of core functions and institutional policies of the institute and also considering compliance with the basic commands received from its member states, which determine as a priority of INCAP, education, training and development of the staff on Food Security and Nutrition FNS. It starts from the consideration that the human talent can make a difference for the implementation of comprehensive measures to achieve the SAN in their countries, strengthening their technical knowledge and skills to react and innovate in management capacity and strategic decision making. This technical unit consists of two basic areas: i. - Distance Education and ii. - Centre for Advanced Studies in Food and Nutrition. General Objective To develop strategies for human resource development based on the analysis of institutional needs, the current demand and potential for cooperation and technical assistance to member countries on education, training and human resource development in SAN at different levels of training in the regional, national and local levels. Functions Through INCAP's basic functions related to technical cooperation and assistance, mobilization of human resources, education and training, scientific and technical research and dissemination, this unit has the following functions: 1. To organize the Technical Unit of Human Resources Development according to the themes of education and training of human resources on nutrition, food and its determinants. 2. To update the regulations and management standards such as academic and administrative file. 3. To develop institutional programs of the unit according corresponding levels such as tutorials, associated researchers, postgraduate diplomas, and short courses using both faceto-face and virtual technology. 4. To support technical cooperation between countries for the management of programs in formulation, transfers of methodologies and technologies as well as support for teaching and research. 24

25 5. To develop distance learning programs including the training of trainers, development of content and activities, the actual implementation of the courses, as well as their evaluation. 6. To build alliances and tactical networks supporting the management in human resources involved in the signing of agreements between the schools of nutrition of Mesoamerica, universities and organizations of science and technology. 7. To develop scientific, technical and educational material supported in the areas of knowledge production of INCAP such as technical notes, manuals and publications. 8. To manage knowledge according to the fulfillment of the mission and vision of the Institute. 9. To design, manage and evaluate quality in research and information projects; education, training and technical assistance in the thematic areas prioritized according to the strategic plan of the institution, on being aware that the portfolio of services may be amended according to changes in the Institute. 12. To promote the scientific and technical development of professionals and researchers of the institution involved in the processes of knowledge production and delivery of services in the strategic area of food and nutrition. 13. To formulate plans, projects, reports, balance sheets and reports of the performance of the area, according to the institutional rules and procedures. 14. To establish coordination mechanisms among professionals in each of the thematic areas of food and nutrition. 15. To facilitate cooperation among research professionals for the achievement of institutional outcomes. 16. To promote the incorporation of innovations for the achievement of results. 17. To coordinate the design, management and evaluation of the projects in its area of competence. 10. To submit plans, balances and memories of its technical unit, in coordination with the Planning Unit. 25

26 Unit of Technical Cooperation to Countries The official representation of the Institute in the countries is exercised by the Coordinator of technical cooperation in each country. The Coordinator of Technical Cooperation will depend on political and administrative management of the INCAP, who has been delegated, by the Board of Directors, the permanent monitoring of these officials. The unit of Technical Cooperation to Countries will be the link of managerial and administrative relationship between Headquarters and Technical Cooperation Coordinators who will be under the coordination of the director, with the support of the Planning Unit. This support unit should develop a strategy that allows the connection of the technical units of the Institute allowing a fluid articulation and at the same time bringing the planning, monitoring and evaluation in an organized way. General Objective To implement technical strategies designed by the INCAP in member countries as for external cooperation in food, nutrition and their determinants according to the needs of countries and their prioritization, based on resolutions and mandates issued by the Directing Council of INCAP, its Director, supported by the technical units of INCAP. Functions 1. To advocate that decision-makers of the political and technical levels of countries acquire the commitment to implement solutions to priority nutrition problems and their determinants. 2. To maintain and disseminate updated information on the status of nutrition and its determinants in the country, as well as the response capacity of public and private institutions involved with the problems of nutrition and their determinants. 3. To promote, advocate and negotiate technical cooperation, when required, with other cooperation agencies, establishing actual support requirements that reflect the critical points and limiting factors for the rational and equitable distribution of technical and financial resources. 4. To formulate, implement, monitor and evaluate the program of technical cooperation that harmonizes the needs of the country with the institutional offer. 5. To provide direct technical cooperation to the country according to its professional specialty, to request support to Headquarters or coordinate the execution of actions of cooperation by networks established for the development of their national counterparts. 26

27 6. To mobilize resources (financial and non financial) in support of programs and projects for the promotion and improvement of nutrition and their determinants in the member countries. 7. Elaboration of proposals to assist in the raising of financial resources that contributes to the self sustainability of INCAP. 8. To serve as liaison between Headquarters and member countries to publicize the work of the Institute to counterparts and to adjust institutional priorities and programs based on the needs of the countries. 9. To follow up on commitments, resolutions and agreements emanating from the governing bodies of INCAP and other Ministers Councils of the Central American region, to foster its implementation in each of the countries. 10. Integrate ad hoc thematic groups established by the External Advisory Committee in each country. 11. Exercise budgetary control over the funds allocated by Headquarters to the country. 12. Ensure that technical cooperation to the country is done in coordination with other regional cooperation organizations. 27