University of Ghana to begin Master of Research and Public Policy programme
By News Ghana – Jun 26, 2016
The University of Ghana under the Centre for Social Policy Studies, has launched a Master of Research and Public Policy programme to strengthen the training of social science researchers and policy practitioners.
The programme is a collaborative effort between the Partnership for African Social and Governance Research and 12 universities across Africa, which delivers the course using a common curriculum.
The programme focuses on social science research and public policy based on priorities of the African public policy agenda as well as current developmental challenges.
The course is a full two- year programme covered in four semesters including field experience and theses preparation.
Professor Ernest Aryeetey, Vice Chancellor of the University, launching the programme, noted that most African countries have gone through three decades of social and economic reforms which are mainly influenced by foreign countries because of the absence of the needed skills and expertise to spearhead the sector.
He said social policy reforms need effective research approach, saying the new Master’s programme would equip students with the understanding of universal theories and concepts to think critically and contribute to the development of public policies.
The Vice Chancellor said Africa’s developmental challenges call for an approach to public policy that would lead to true prosperity for the continent’s people.
He said the course would be delivered through a combination of innovative approach, encompassing interactive teaching approaches such as simulations, debates, role -plays and project-based learning, field experience and learning through case studies.
Students would benefit from linkages that draw in the expertise of academic leaders from selected leading schools of public policy in Europe and America.
Dr Nii Moi Thompson, Director General of the National Development and Planning Commission, lauded the programme, adding that it would help broaden the horizon of evidence-based research for developmental planning.
He encouraged the Centre to place emphasis on ICT, which is critical in research, urging the students to communicate their findings of thesis to the public for effective decision making.
Mrs Rita Rockson, a student of the programme, said the course had shaped understanding in public policies issues, especially with processes it goes through before a bill is passed in Parliament.
She called for international exchanges to learn from other countries experiences to give the programme a global perspective.
The first batch for the course began in February 2016 with 18 students after competitive selection.
Professor Solomon Akinboye, Dean of Graduate Studies at the University of Lagos, Professor Samuel Agyei-Mensah, Provost, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Professor Abena Oduro, Director, Centre for Social Policy studies and staff of the Centre were present for the ceremony.
This story has been re-posted from https://www.newsghana.com.gh/ug-to-begin-master-of-research-and-public-policy-programs/