African researchers, policy analysts, academics, and government professionals now have an exciting opportunity to strengthen their expertise in public finance and development through the fully funded UNU-WIDER and African Union Winter School 2026.
Jointly organized by the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) and the African Union, this prestigious training programme is designed to equip participants with practical skills in applied public economics and quantitative public finance analysis.
The programme combines online and in-person learning experiences, bringing together talented professionals from across Africa to engage with leading researchers, policymakers, and experts working on some of the continent’s most pressing fiscal and development challenges.
Successful applicants will receive financial support covering travel, accommodation, and most meals during the in-person programme in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
About the UNU-WIDER and African Union Winter School
The Winter School focuses on strengthening analytical and research capacity in public finance and development. Participants will gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in evaluating fiscal policies and understanding how public finance can be used to support economic development and social progress.
The programme is particularly relevant for professionals involved in designing, analyzing, implementing, or researching public policies in African countries.
Participants will engage in lectures, practical exercises, case studies, and collaborative learning sessions delivered by UNU-WIDER researchers and internationally recognized experts.
The course aims to help participants develop evidence-based approaches to public finance challenges while improving their ability to produce policy-relevant research that can inform decision-making processes.
Programme Structure
The Winter School will be delivered in two phases.
Phase 1: Online Methods Workshop
Dates: 28–30 July 2026
Participants will attend a three-day virtual workshop focusing on research methods, quantitative analysis techniques, and foundational concepts in public finance.
The online component is designed to prepare participants for the more intensive in-person learning experience that follows.
Phase 2: In-Person Winter School in Ethiopia
Dates: 14–18 September 2026
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The in-person programme will be hosted by the African Union and will provide participants with direct access to experts, practical exercises, networking opportunities, and collaborative learning activities.
The programme will create an environment where participants can exchange ideas, discuss policy challenges, and learn from peers from different African countries and institutions.
Key Learning Topics
The Winter School will cover a broad range of critical issues related to public finance and development.
Topics include:
Public Finance and Development
- Public revenue generation.
- Government expenditure.
- Fiscal policy design.
- Development financing.
Taxation and Revenue Mobilization
- Tax compliance.
- Tax evasion.
- Tax enforcement strategies.
- Domestic revenue mobilization.
Informality
- Informal sector dynamics.
- Implications for taxation and public policy.
- Strategies for improving fiscal inclusion.
Redistribution and Inequality
- Income redistribution mechanisms.
- Equity considerations in public policy.
- Fiscal approaches to reducing inequality.
Social Protection
- Social safety nets.
- Welfare programmes.
- Poverty reduction strategies.
- Social protection systems.
Empirical Methods and Data Analysis
- Quantitative research methods.
- Policy evaluation techniques.
- Evidence-based decision-making.
- Public finance data analysis.
Artificial Intelligence in Public Policy
- Emerging applications of AI in policy analysis.
- Data-driven governance.
- AI-assisted research methods.
- Opportunities and challenges of AI in public finance.
Special Participation Opportunity: SOUTHMOD at 10 Celebration
An additional highlight of the programme is participation in the SOUTHMOD at 10 celebration.
The first day of the in-person Winter School will coincide with this special event, providing participants with access to:
- A keynote address by leading experts.
- Panel discussions on public finance.
- Sessions focused on domestic revenue mobilization.
- Networking opportunities with researchers and policymakers.
This component offers participants valuable exposure to current debates and innovations in fiscal policy and development economics.
Financial Benefits
Selected participants will receive financial assistance to support their participation in the programme.
Funding includes:
- Travel expenses to Addis Ababa.
- Accommodation during the programme.
- Most meals during the stay.
- Access to all training sessions and learning materials.
- Opportunities to interact with leading international experts and policymakers.
This financial support helps ensure that talented participants from across Africa can participate regardless of financial constraints.
Who Should Apply?
The Winter School is designed for professionals involved in policy analysis, research, and public sector development.
Eligible applicants include:
Government Professionals
- Ministry staff.
- Policy analysts.
- Economic advisors.
- Government researchers.
Revenue Authority Officials
- Tax policy specialists.
- Revenue analysts.
- Compliance and enforcement professionals.
Researchers and Academics
- University researchers.
- Lecturers.
- Academic staff.
- Research fellows.
Research Institute Professionals
- Analysts.
- Economists.
- Public finance researchers.
- Development policy specialists.
Encouraging Women’s Participation
The organizers strongly encourage applications from suitably qualified early-career female researchers.
This commitment reflects broader efforts to strengthen women’s representation in economics, public policy, taxation, and development research across Africa.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the UNU-WIDER and African Union Winter School offers numerous professional and academic benefits.
Participants will:
- Gain practical skills in applied public economics.
- Learn advanced quantitative analysis techniques.
- Build expertise in taxation and public finance.
- Understand emerging applications of AI in policy research.
- Strengthen their research and analytical capabilities.
- Expand their professional network across Africa.
- Engage directly with internationally recognized experts.
- Improve their ability to produce policy-relevant research.
- Contribute more effectively to evidence-based policymaking in their institutions.
The programme provides a unique platform for professional growth while helping participants address real-world development challenges facing African countries.
Important Dates
Application Deadline
7 June 2026 (23:59 EEST)
Selection Results
26 June 2026 (Target date for notification of selected applicants)
Participation Confirmation
8 July 2026 (Target date for confirming attendance)
Online Methods Workshop
28–30 July 2026
In-Person Winter School
14–18 September 2026
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
How to Apply
Click here for more and to apply
Interested applicants should carefully review the complete call for applications and submit their application before the deadline.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials early, as competition is expected to be strong for this prestigious capacity-building opportunity.
The Winter School represents an exceptional chance for African researchers and policy professionals to strengthen their expertise, expand their networks, and contribute to more effective public finance policies across the continent.
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