Posted for Dr. Hakikur Rahman. CALL FOR BOOK CHAPTERS Submission Deadline: May 31, 2005 /Information and Communication Technologies for Economic and Regional Developments /A book edited by Dr. Hakikur Rahman, SDNP Introduction The significance of information management in the developing nations needs no introduction; it is well-established phenomena in the development arena. Consequently there is an urgent need to understand the technology perspective along with the pragmatic applications of it and to explore the potential of different types of knowledge that it may yield. In this context, synthesis on contents from computer science and theoretical physics to information science, communication studies and entomology need to be revisited with nascent eyes, focusing development of common people the majority of the global community. With a concrete plan of action, focusing streamlined activities can assist any country in building a people-centred, inclusive and development-oriented information society. Therefore, management of information and knowledge is of prime importance in the development of masses in the context of economic and regional development. The Overall Objective of the Book The role of ICT in rural development can be extremely crucial. ICT provides the technology for connectivity, but connectivity without content is futile. ICT application related to information management can become an integral part of the overall strategy for development. Fostering partnership among government, civil society, the private sector and other development partners can effectively address economic and social divides. Creation of development anticipation through information and knowledge reiterates proper scientific research and management. Knowledge is a concept, wherein stakeholders contribute to it by ways of information sharing among retrospective domains. Resources eradicate poverty, knowledge empowers them and ICT plays a major role in bridging the gap between these two. A book focusing on management of information and knowledge utilizing technological and applied science for the development of rural communities can feed the society as a knowledge tool and guideline. The Target Audience The target audience of this book includes professionals and researchers working in the field of information networking and knowledge management in various disciplines such as information and communication sciences, education, adult education, computer science, and information technology. This book will be a useful collection in community libraries, public libraries, research organizations and academic institutes' libraries. Moreover, the book can act as a guideline for agencies and organizations that like to utilize ICT for delivering local-specific, demand-driven information to enhance grass-root development. Recommended topics include, but are not limited to, the following: /Emerging issues in information management for the developing nations Information management and knowledge dynamics for the development matrix Management of information for knowledge vortex Dissemination strategies for information management; Strengthening mechanisms of information channel and practical implementation Emphasizing the key role of information for capacity development Skill transfer and building suitable ICT infrastructure for rural communities Development of online/offline content for community development; Development of learning systems through policy reform, dialogue, and capacity-building Maximizing ICT applications for knowledge development Developing local, regional, national data base(s) and information system Promoting greater resource mobilization and effective resource allocation / SUBMISSION PROCEDURE Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit /on or before *May 31, 2005*/, a 2-5 page manuscript proposal clearly explaining the mission and concerns of the proposed chapter. Authors of accepted proposals will be notified by */June 30, 2005/* about the status of their proposals and sent chapter organizational guidelines. Full chapters are expected to be submitted by */September 30, 2005/*. All submitted chapters will be reviewed on a blind review basis. The book is scheduled to be published by Idea Group, Inc., _www.idea-group.com_ <http://www.idea-group.com/>, publisher of the Idea Group Publishing, Information Science Publishing, IRM Press, CyberTech Publishing, and Idea Group Reference imprints. /Inquiries and Submissions can be forwarded *electronically* (Word document) or by *mail* to:/ Dr. Hakikur Rahman SDNP Bangladesh (UNDP) BIDS, E-17 AGARGAON, DHAKA-1207, BANGLADESH. Tel.: +880 2 8126204 • FAX: +880 2 9118543 • GSM: +880 189 228939 • e-mail: hakik@sdnbd.org