UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance: A Deep Dive
The landscape of public finance in developing countries is complex, requiring skilled analysts and researchers to navigate its challenges and opportunities. To address this need, the UNU-WIDER and the African Union are collaborating to offer a specialized Winter School on Public Finance. This program aims to equip participants with practical skills in applied public economics, focusing on quantitative analysis relevant to developing economies. The initiative highlights the growing importance of data-driven approaches and the integration of new technologies like AI in understanding and shaping public financial policies.
Course Overview and Objectives
The 2026 UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance is designed as a blended learning experience. It begins with an online methods workshop, providing a foundational understanding of key analytical tools. This is followed by an in-person course held at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Participants will engage with UNU-WIDER researchers and invited experts, gaining insights into current research and policy debates. The program emphasizes strengthening participants’ capacity to produce research that can directly inform policy decisions.
The curriculum covers a broad range of topics essential for public finance professionals. These include the fundamental principles of public finance and their connection to broader development goals. Participants will explore issues such as tax evasion and enforcement strategies, the dynamics of informal economies, and the mechanisms of redistribution within a society. Social protection systems and their effectiveness will also be examined. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to empirical methods, data analysis, and the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in public finance.
Key Program Components and Dates
The Winter School is structured in two distinct phases to maximize learning and engagement. The first phase is a three-day online methods workshop, scheduled from July 28-30, 2026. This virtual component allows participants to access training remotely, focusing on the quantitative techniques that will be applied throughout the program. Following this, the second phase is an intensive one-week in-person course. This will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from September 14-18, 2026, hosted by the African Union.
A special event is planned to coincide with the first day of the in-person course: the SOUTHMOD at 10 celebration. This event will provide participants with an opportunity to engage in keynote addresses and panel discussions centered on public finance and domestic revenue mobilization. This integration of a celebratory event with academic learning offers a unique perspective on the practical application and importance of public finance strategies in Africa.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
This program is specifically targeted at researchers and analysts working within African institutions. This includes individuals from ministries, revenue authorities, other government agencies, universities, and research institutes across the continent. The organizers particularly encourage applications from suitably qualified early-career female researchers, aiming to promote greater gender diversity in the field of public finance.
To be considered for the course, applicants must meet several requirements. They are expected to have their own laptops, with Stata and R software ideally pre-installed, as these tools will be used extensively during the practical sessions. Participants who successfully complete at least 80% of both the lectures and practical sessions will receive a course certificate. This demonstrates a commitment to mastering the material presented.
Application Procedure and Timeline
The application process for the 2026 UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance is entirely online. The deadline for submitting applications is June 7, 2026, at 23:59 UTC+3. Applicants must prepare several documents for submission. These include a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a motivational letter explaining their interest and suitability for the program, and a one-page original sample of Stata or R code.
A unique requirement this year is a note, not exceeding 500 words, detailing how AI tools have been used in writing the submitted code or what the applicant wishes to learn about AI in the context of public finance. Additionally, a letter of recommendation is required. This letter must be sent directly by the recommender to a specified email address ([email protected]) before the application deadline. Applicants must also provide the recommender’s name in their application.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to take a brief online test to assess their quantitative skills, including coding abilities and the interpretation of empirical results. Once selected, applicants will be notified via email and must confirm their acceptance of the offer within two weeks.
The application timeline is as follows:
- June 7, 2026: Application submission deadline (23:59 EEST)
- June 26, 2026: Target date for decisions on selected applications
- July 8, 2026: Target date for confirming participation
- July 28-30, 2026: Online methods workshop
- September 14-18, 2026: UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Financial Assistance and Support
Successful applicants will benefit from comprehensive financial assistance to ease their participation. This includes a travel grant that covers round-trip travel expenses from their home institution to Addis Ababa. Accommodation and most meals during the in-person course in Addis Ababa will also be provided. Furthermore, the program offers back-office support to assist participants in obtaining the necessary entry visa for Ethiopia, simplifying the logistical aspects of attending the course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School?
The school aims to equip participants with practical skills in applied public economics and quantitative analysis for developing economies, focusing on research that informs policy.
What is the format of the Winter School?
It’s a blended learning experience, starting with an online methods workshop from July 28-30, 2026, followed by an in-person course in Addis Ababa from September 14-18, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for the Winter School?
Researchers and analysts from African institutions like ministries, revenue authorities, universities, and research institutes are eligible. Early-career female researchers are particularly encouraged to apply.
What are the key application requirements?
Applicants need a CV, motivational letter, a Stata or R code sample, a note on AI use, and a recommendation letter sent directly by the recommender. The application deadline is June 7, 2026.
