Why is building capacity important in COPAR?

Building capacity is crucial in Community Participatory Action Research (COPAR) because it empowers community members with the necessary skills and resources to actively participate in their own development. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members, encouraging them to take an initiative in addressing local issues. By investing in capacity building, individuals within the community can enhance their understanding, skills, and confidence, which leads to meaningful and sustained engagement in the research process and its outcomes.

This focus on empowering the community ensures that the knowledge gained is not just theoretical but can be practically applied. As a result, the community becomes capable of continuing efforts to address their own challenges even after external support is withdrawn, promoting long-term sustainability and resilience. Additionally, a well-equipped community can better utilize data and implement findings from research to improve their conditions and advocate for their needs effectively.