The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is conducting a three-day training program on economic analysis at the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) Secretariat in Dhaka.
The training marks a "significant milestone" following the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between IFPRI and Bimstec on collaborative research, capacity strengthening and policy engagement, the think-tank says.
The training program, from Tuesday to Thursday, involves the participation of lead specialists from Bimstec's priority sectors of trade, investment and development, environment and climate change, security, agriculture and food security, people-to-people contact, science, technology and innovation, connectivity, and researchers and analysts from leading universities and think tanks based in Bangladesh.
It features curriculums designed to equip participants with an understanding of ways for data analysis in terms of contemporary and robust methods.
Apart from methodology, the program also includes hands-on experience using statistical software, case studies, policy formulation and how to prepare and present knowledge products, IFPRI said.
“We are delighted to have partnered with IFPRI for this impactful training program,” Tun Lynn Aung, director of the Agriculture and Food Security Division, Bimstec Secretariat, was quoted as saying.
"Economic analysis has become increasingly vital in today's complex and interconnected world. It provides a systematic framework to assess the potential impacts of policies, programs and interventions on various sectors of the economy. By equipping ourselves with the tools and knowledge of economic analysis, we can effectively address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."
"If Bimstec were to realize its vast potential in market integration, a revamped understanding of trade patterns and policies is warranted that has been lacking. The current training program aims precisely to build capacity for addressing these analytical gaps," said Dr Devesh Roy, senior research fellow, IFPRI.
"The agenda of Bimstec and the vision comprises our shared universal framework of action for eradicating poverty, sustainability, inter alia making this part of the world more integrated economically, climate-actions wise."
Bimstec is a platform for multi-sectoral, economic and technical cooperation among seven countries – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand.
IFPRI says it remains dedicated to advancing research, capacity development and policy advocacy to address the complex challenges faced by the agri-food system in the Bimstec region.
"If the world were to achieve the avowed goal it is an integral part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Bimstec's overarching framework for regional and national development efforts calls for the promotion of analytical capacity to understand the possibilities in Bimstec," said Dr Mamata Pradhan, research coordinator, IFPRI.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded the program through its project on regional trade and agricultural transformation in the Bay of Bengal countries.
