Through their interactive (and often participant-led) session methods and tailored-learning structure, the IWCs aim to offer an experience for participants that is unlike the mainstream water management conference:
“Has anybody opened their [conference] programme book? Do you know what is in the middle? There is a results framework. How many people go to conferences or learning events where there is a results framework? … And with the IW:LEARN team setting its intention, they are quite immediately strengthening their own ability to help you retain what you are doing here."
- Monika Weber-Fahr, Executive Secretary and CEO, Global Water Partnership
And they are designed to foster relationships and build new ones:
"It Is fantastic to see so many IW stakeholders here. It’s a real family gathering— but it is not only family, because every time we (hold this event) we have new people coming, new agencies and partners; and that is absolutely great!”
- Vladimir Mamaev, Regional Technical Advisor, UN Development Programme
"In our daily jobs, it can be hard to focus on advancing knowledge as we have to face tight deadlines; but that is where the IWC comes in, it is an opportunity to talk, to share and build these personal and professional ties that will last way longer after the Conference."
- Chris Severin, Coordinator of the GEF's International Waters focal area.