Tokyo Development Learning Center (TDLC)

The Technical Deep Dive (TDD) is TDLC’s signature one-week knowledge exchange program that synthesizes, packages, and delivers key Japanese and global best practices aimed at generating actionable solutions that can be leveraged in World Bank projects in developing countries.  

Technical Deep Dives bring together groups of World Bank clients and those responsible for the implementation of Bank projects in developing countries. Each session provides unique peer-to-peer learning opportunities and connects participants with TDLC’s network of experts and global community of urban practitioners.  

Technical Deep Dives offer blended learning opportunities, introducing participants to cases, partners, and experts from Japan and other countries through a range of formats and activities. These include: 

• Presentations by experts: TDLC invites experts and practitioners from Japan and around the world to disseminate knowledge and experiences that address development issues relevant to the topic of each Technical Deep Dive. Face-to-face interaction and networking with these experts are an added value for participants. 
• Site visits: These are at the heart of Technical Deep Dives and allow participants to witness and experience Japanese urban development practices firsthand. 
• Peer exchanges: The TDD format includes “shift-and-share” exchanges, where client country teams move from table to table to discuss the challenges faced in each of their home countries while sharing the solutions adopted or measures taken in response. This approach enhances peer-to-peer learning by introducing fresh and practical solutions that can be applied by participants. 
• Follow-up: The program is action-driven with a focus on problem solving and results in implementation-ready action plans that address specific development challenges. To accelerate the implementation of these plans, Technical Deep Dives are coupled with Operational Support, which includes technical assistance, expert consultations, and the dispatch of Japanese experts to project sites in client countries. 

FY23 Results

Technical Deep Dives offer participants and their home countries the following wide range of benefits:

• 5 TDDs delivered - Affordable Housing; Quality Urban Infrastructure Investments; Nature-Based Solutions; Managing Urban Crises; and Cites & Climate Change
• 52 World Bank Projects informed, totaling US$8.28 billion, with target beneficiaries of approximately 43 million people (consider rounding total)
• 37 participating countries, with Africa and Eastern Europe & Central Asia having the largest regional representation
• 200 knowledge recipients (42% female) composed of 149 country representatives and 51 World Bank Task Team Leaders
• 109 experts mobilized, consisting of 50 Japanese experts and 59 international experts
• 7 Japanese Cities featured, showcasing lessons and Japanese best practices