SPARKNET organisation profile

University of Twente, Technology and Development Group (TDG)

Member

The Technology and Development Group (TDG) is a team of social scientists, scientists and engineers with extensive experience in developing countries, with a special mission within the University of Twente. The TDG was established with the objectives of:

• introducing a development perspective into the technological and social subjects covered by the different departments of the University;
• studying the role of technology in the development processes in the developing world.

The TDG" s multidisciplinary character gives it an unique position among Dutch institutes devoted to development studies. It enables effective interaction within a University which emphasises both technical and social science subjects. It provides Dutch students with an integrated and holistic understanding of the world in which they will work. At the same time, the group has brought a distinctive approach to the internationalisation process of the University through its research, PhD programmes, international courses and external advisory work.

In 1999, the TDG celebrated its 20th anniversary. During this time the group has built up an international reputation for quality in education, research and capacity building through PhD programmes and training courses in the fields of energy, environment, institution building and business management.

More than 600 students have completed Master"s thesis projects with the group. Many of these have gone on to work in international development agencies, consultancy bureaux and companies operating in developing countries. More than 1400 professionals have received post-experience training in energy and environmental management through participation in international courses. Staff members have been regularly involved in advisory work for the Dutch Government, international organisations, NGOs and commercial consultancy bureaux.

The education and research activities in the TDG are divided into two sections organised around the two professorial chairs: The Technology and Sustainable Development Section and the International Management Section.

Organisation contacts

	name	surname	city	country
Dr.	Joy	Clancy	Enschede	Netherlands	view