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In both the Politecnica Nacional ( Quito ) , the State University of Cuenca and the University of Loja , experience was gained on the collaboration regarding GIS in development countries with both academic personal as students of the faculties of agricultural engineers and / or system engineers . Using research-based evidence is an important aspect of engaging with policy-makers by providing credible evidence about areas in which we have determined a credible need for policy interventions . Some of these opportunities are : internships and graduate assistantships to assist with community planning ; continuing education workshops for county agents , non-government / non-profit community development organizations , and local government agencies ; training 4-H youth to compile community resource inventories ; and implementation of a vocational education program with a local facility of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons . We need to work together throughout the research and dissemination processes to ensure that the research is embedded in the social needs of the different groups . The far-ranging determinants of health and societal development require collaboration across a range of societal actors , sectors and geographical boundaries in policymaking .