DigiNet is a global network of ICT/BCC experts, information and knowledge on health, utilizing JOICFP's DigiPlan technology. Focusing on population and reproductive health (RH), DigiNet facilitates the exchange of information and knowledge by linking archives and databases around the world.

On 9th May, in a one-day workshop, a JOICFP team transferred technology skills to Mexfam to facilitate the development of DigiNet in the Latin American region.

JOICFP outlined the concept of DigiNet, and explained how DigiNet could benefit Mexfam by strengthening the organization as a regional clearinghouse and by ‘assetizing’ its collected information, in addition to giving it access to a vast database of population and RH material.

Atsushi Yoshino, Director, Media Communications,
JOICFP, outlines concepts of DigiNet

The JOICFP team then explained concepts behind building a database, and that for the DigiNet database.

The creation of a database needs a concept and purpose at the outset. Databases can contain a wide variety of information, so deciding what information to include needs to be made clear. In addition, how information is accessed in relationship to other information also needs to be determined.

This was followed by a short session on basic photography, covering elements such as composition, and basic use of the digital camera, especially for documentation of events for projects. Participants in the lecture practiced taking photographs in the room to illustrate various points, and their efforts were then critiqued.

Yoshino looks on as one of the participant practices
composing a photograph

The training finished with JOICFP explaining the classification system of DigiNet, showing how various items of information, such as text, still images, or video images, and whether they are copies, originals or thumbnails, would be organized for systematic, easy retrieval and storage.

Practice in classifying data for inclusion
in the DigiNet database

JOICFP also handed-over hardware and software to Mexfam to support them in their efforts.

Mexfam is very pleased to have received the technical training, saying that it will be able to further contribute to addressing population and RH issues in the region, as well as support other concerned organizations around the world. Mexfam now plans to carry out fundraising specifically to support the development of DigiNet.