Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-03-27 03:09:42
For the past three decades, the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) based at Makerere University has been a pioneer in generating policy-oriented research and analysis to inform decision-making on socio-economic development in Uganda. In a recent celebration of its 30th anniversary at Serena Hotel gardens, EPRC reflected on its journey of collaboration and societal impact, honoring both active and fallen partners who have contributed to its success.
Established in 1993 as an autonomous not-for-profit organization, EPRC aimed to enhance national capacity to support the policymaking efforts of the government. The UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Susan Ngongi Namondo, lauded EPRC for its significant contributions to research and its continued independence despite strong government support. She emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving operational environment and highlighted the center’s role in providing evidence-based findings to support Uganda’s development agenda.
Ibrahim Kasirye, the director of research at EPRC, expressed gratitude to the researchers and partners who have played a crucial role in the organization’s achievements. Over the years, EPRC has conducted timely research to inform government policies and programs, focusing on various areas such as poverty reduction, structural adjustments, and achieving the Millennium Development Goals.
In its third decade, EPRC has supported the government in stimulating inclusive growth, particularly for youth and women, by addressing constraints on revenue mobilization, social protection, and labor markets. The center has also emphasized private sector development through research on agro-industrialization, microenterprises, and access to financial services.
Through collaborations with the Finance Ministry, EPRC has developed strategies for agro-industrialization and public investment management, while its research on poverty trends and pro-poor growth has informed poverty reduction strategies in Uganda. The center’s work has also supported peace restoration in Northern Uganda and influenced government decisions on taxation and agricultural policies.
EPRC has maintained a strong relationship with Makerere University, collaborating on initiatives to support student development and provide internship opportunities. Looking ahead, the center plans to enhance its research impact by mobilizing resources, expanding its research focus to include socioeconomic and political dimensions, and strengthening stakeholder engagements.
To ensure the continuity of its mandate, EPRC aims to secure a larger office space and ramp up capacity-building efforts through post-doctoral training programs and international fellowship opportunities. The center is committed to maintaining its independence as a non-profit policy think tank and contributing to evidence-based policymaking in Uganda.
Overall, EPRC’s anniversary celebration highlighted its commitment to excellence in research, collaboration with partners, and dedication to shaping effective policies for sustainable socio-economic development in Uganda.
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