Despite having a wealth of human capital, there is a continued need for qualified economists and social scientists on the continent. The African School of Economics (ASE) has undertaken a variety strategies to address this issue, one of which is the Summer Institute for Economic Research (SIER). In its third consecutive year, SIER brought together researchers, policymakers, and students from across the region to present experiences, knowledge, and ongoing research. Topics ranging from food security and production to infrastructural development were explored over the span of 5 days. Participants were encouraged to ask questions, explore theories, and share ideas.
For details on the most recent edition of SIER, please consult the program or visit the school’s YouTube channel. A comprehensive report of the conference proceedings is also available.
ASE Dean Fr. Claude Domfang and IREEP Director Markus Olapade speak with SIER presenter Deo-Gracias Houndolo.
Testimonials from SIER 2017
“I think it is very top-rate, very rigorous, intellectually stimulating, and excellent research work that’s been done within the SIER […]. For me, my big take away is that we do have excellent researchers who are doing excellent work in Africa, who are producing excellent results. So all the topics that were debated, were discussed this morning are topics which are of relevance to the development of Africa. I was very impressed with the quality of the research; I was very impressed with the quality of the topic. And I think, for me, as really, really a lot is being done within the African School of Economics—a lot is being done within Africa—and a lot of this research needs to be taken to policy makers so they can be able to make a difference in the lives of ordinary people.” – Abdul Tejan-Cole, Executive Director of the Open Society Institute for West Africa ( OSIWA
“This is my first time to participate to the SIER, and I think it is a great opportunity for us to learn more about very, very rigorous studies going on in Africa. And it’s a very big pleasure for me to participate [in] this edition of SIER.” – Arsène Zongo, Second-year MMES student from Burkina Faso
“This great, unique program is an opportunity for me to improve my capacity as a master student, and to give me a broad picture of what I’m thinking to achieve in the long run.” – Morlu Kpalie, Second-year MMES student from Liberia
