Abstract

In the past, developing countries have faced problems in recruiting and retraining intellectual resources for nutrition education. By now, most developing countries have in place the first of a second-generation cadre of well-educated nutrition scientists who are capable of training nationals in their fields. Many nutrition training programmes are presently run by local personnel. Local cultures and behavioural studies are not always not included in the curriculum, although it is important to include these to enhance the effectiveness of intervention programmes. The need to go beyond descriptive information is evident. The ability to predict changes in malnutrition rates is a skill needed for effective and substantial interventions. Nutritionists from developing countries need to be trained in the basic tools of social science and evaluation research. Developing countries require the cooperation of the developed world to encourage local nutritionists to improve their technological skills. Specific skills can be provided through short courses, workshops, and in-service training. Training also should be coordinated locally, regionally, and nationally. It has been observed that training in nutrition research has not been linked to programme operations. There has been a lack of coordination among nutritionists from the same region, and communities have seldom been involved as partners in training.