ICIPE's Contribution to Global Openness: Capacity Building and Information Literacy Initiatives

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Date

2024-06-20

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International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)

Abstract

In the ever-evolving landscape of scholarly communication, open access, open science and open publishing have emerged as a transformative force, revolutionizing the way knowledge is disseminated and accessed worldwide. Information professionals play a pivotal role in advocating for, facilitating, and shaping the growth of global openness of knowledge at academic and research institutions worldwide. Founded in 1970, The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) stands at the forefront of innovative research aimed at addressing global challenges related to human, animal, plant and environmental health. The institution is a champion of open access initiatives rooted in its belief in the democratization of knowledge. According to Web of Science core collection and Dimensions database publication metrics, over 75% of the indexed institutions’ research is published in OA (2019-2024). The information professionals at icipe are at the forefront of promoting open access publishing in reputable journals through capacity building initiatives and information literacy (IL) training aimed at raising awareness on benefits of OA which include increased visibility, citation impact, and global reach. In addition, icipe’s notable contribution to OA is archiving of research outputs and datasets through Open Access Repository (OAR) and online databases. The OAR serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, educators, and the public, facilitating access of scientific information without barriers. icipe has a publication and OA policy in place that advocates for researchers to take OA publishing route whenever research funding to cover Article Processing Charges (APCs) is available. Making scientific research freely accessible is particularly important in resource-constrained settings and developing countries where access to subscription-based journals is limited as this inclusivity fosters scientific capacity development and promotes equitable participation in global research endeavors and sustainable development goals. By freely sharing knowledge and expertise, icipe contributes to evidence-based decision-making, policy formulation, and implementation at local, national, and international levels. Whether it's combating agricultural pests or promoting insects for food and feed, and environmental conservation among others, icipe's open access initiatives play a pivotal role in addressing pressing global issues and improving livelihoods worldwide. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, icipe's dedication to open access continues to inspire positive change and drive sustainable development worldwide. This paper will detail the various initiatives and strategies put in place including capacity building and comprehensive IL training programme; and the achieved benefits and lessons learnt.

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Keywords

Subject::Open science, Subject::Open access

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