In the last year, our panel has trained nearly 100 students, professional researchers, and policy staff from the participating countries in Africa. These trainees come from over 17 different institutions and at least 20 countries. They have been trained in advanced techniques and demographic analyses that are improving the quality of research and policy input they can provide. Some of these trainees have begun to apply these methods. The ultimate result for participating countries will be a vastly enhanced environment for sound policy decision-making.
impact statement issue
There is a pressing need to improve population research and policy dialogue in sub-Saharan Africa, because the region is a) in the early stages of a demographic transition that might greatly shape their development prospects, and b) increasingly witnessing various demographic pressures in the form of urban congestion, food riots, crowded educational and health systems, graduate unemployment, and emigration. In this context, African societies can expect demographic change, and they must build their research capacity to analyze the socioeconomic consequences of changing population trends and incorporate this information in economic planning.
impact statement response
We have created a scientific panel of demographers who will advise on a series of low-cost but effective training activities in the region. These activities will be designed to promote capacity to conduct sound policy research.
impact statement summary
In collaboration with the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP), this project has created a scientific panel to support activities that strengthen demographic training in Francophone Africa.
