A Policy Lab typically consists of a team of specialists working in a creative environment, aiming to address complex challenges in government policy formulation and implementation. These labs experiment with and propose innovative public services and policies while striving to reform and improve government operations. The Lab approach is tailored for individuals who understand policy dynamics and have some familiarity with advocacy. Utilizing new technologies and methodologies, Policy Labs identify data-driven interventions. Their practical approach is akin to the experimental nature of labs in the natural sciences.
The goal of the Lab is to address the lack of citizen engagement in public policy spaces and engage with communities on problems affecting them.
On the 22nd of August, the WAYI participants met on ZOOM to kick off the Policy Advocacy Lab process. The meeting introduced the first stage which will equip the participants with tools to name the problem. The key is to gather concerns from the community to understand how the problem affects them and to understand if the problem is the problem, or is merely a symptom of a greater problem.
The lab process consists of 3 stages and the WAYI participants will work their way through the course during the month of September. Below is a recording of the meeting and the subsequent presentation that was used.