This series is based on a 'seminar' given by Professor Robert Chambers held in 2010. It aims to explore the genesis and value of participatory approaches as modes of development inquiry and reflect on their use internationally and in the local context. It is also intended to add value to the work of all who are of the view that participatory governance demands new and innovative ways of working.

The seminar was hosted by Khanya-aicdd and supported by the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and The School of Social Sciences - University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), The Centre for Development Support – University of Free State and the Ford Foundation.

Khanya-aicdd has had a long and fruitful relationship with the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) (University of Sussex). Khanya-aicdd's CEO, Kamal Singh worked for 5 years at the IDS, and was a founder member with Prof Chambers of the initial Participation Group. Together they supported the spread of participatory methods across the globe through south-south networking, learning and sharing events and publications.

Professor Robert Chambers is a Research Associate in the Participation, Power and Social Change Team at the Institute of Development Studies, UK. His main operational and research experience has been in East Africa and South Asia. His work has included aspects of rural development, public administration training, seasonality, irrigation system management, agricultural research and extension, perceptions of poverty, professionalism and participation. His books include Rural Development: Putting the last first (1983), Challenging the Professions (1993), Whose Reality Counts? Putting the first last (1997), Participatory Workshops (2002), Ideas for Development (2005) and Revolutions in Development Inquiry (2008). He is currently working mainly on participatory methodologies, how we know, do not know, and get it wrong in development, community-led total sanitation, and personal and institutional learning and change. 

Khanya-aicdd acknowledges the contributions of their volunteers - Rachel Ombeva, Lizzie Valdivieso and Tlhabi Sehume in producing, editing and compiling these articles.