A Congressman's View of Technical Co-operation

Abstract

According to the Act of International Develop ment of 1950, technical co-operation programs are "Programs for the international interchange of technical knowledge and skills designed to contribute to the integrated development of the economic resources and productive capacities of economi cally underdeveloped areas." To carry out this program the United States sends technicians to host countries, brings host countries personnel to the United States for training, and con tributes to the joint support of bureaus in the host country. Since technical co-operation is primarily a program of educa tion, the emphasis is on the transfer of skills and know-how. Before a program can be successful, three elements must be present. The initial demand must come from the host country —because the idea of self-help is inherent in technical co operation, it must believe in and want the project. Further the host country must be willing to contribute its own funds to the project. When a program or project has been agreed upon, there must be proper planning. A realistic estimate must be made of the type and amount of knowledge and skill which can be supplied by us and of the time required to pro vide this education. It is also important to be aware of how much can be absorbed by the host country, keeping in mind the difference in culture between the host country and our own. When these elements are not present in the technical co-operation program or project, failures will result. Failures which have occurred so far have been ones of administration. —Ed.