SPIA’s mandate was redefined in 2003 when the new science council (and SPIA) were reformed as part of the CGIAR reform process. Currently the mandate of the SPIA is threefold:
To provide CGIAR members with timely, objective and credible information on the impacts at the system level of past CGIAR investments and outputs in terms of the CGIAR goals of enhanced food security, poverty alleviation and sustained natural resources
To provide support to and complement the centres in their ex post impact assessment activities; (this includes facilitating inter-centre impact assessment efforts and providing a forum for exchange of experience from impact studies; and
To provide feedback to CGIAR priority setting and create synergies by developing links to ex ante assessment and overall planning, monitoring and evaluation functions in the CGIAR
The Chair of SPIA is a member of the Science Council. Members of SPIA are chosen for their independence and impact assessment expertise and familiarity with international agricultural research.
