UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance 2026: An Overview
Applications are now open for the UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance 2026. This program aims to equip African policy analysts and researchers with practical skills in applied public economics. The focus will be on quantitative analysis of public finance issues within developing countries. The initiative is a collaboration between UNU-WIDER and the African Union.
The program is designed to provide participants with a strong foundation in public finance for development. It will cover various topics, including empirical methods and data analysis. The goal is to enhance participants’ ability to conduct research that can inform policy decisions in Africa.
Program Structure and Content
The winter school is structured in two parts to offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. The first part is an online methods workshop, spanning three days from July 28-30, 2026. This virtual session will introduce key methodologies and concepts.
Following the online workshop, participants will attend a one-week in-person course. This will be hosted by the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from September 14-18, 2026. During this week, attendees will engage in lectures delivered by UNU-WIDER researchers and invited experts. Practical exercises will be a key component, allowing participants to apply what they have learned.
The curriculum will cover a range of important topics in public finance. These include the general principles of public finance and its role in development. Specific areas of focus will be tax evasion and enforcement strategies, understanding the informal economy, and the mechanisms of redistribution. Social protection programs will also be discussed. Furthermore, the course will delve into empirical methods, data handling, and the emerging role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public finance.
The first day of the in-person course will also mark the celebration of SOUTHMOD at 10. Participants will have the opportunity to join this event, which will feature a keynote address and panel discussions centered on public finance and domestic revenue mobilization.
Benefits for Participants
Successful applicants to the UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance will receive significant support. Financial assistance will be provided to cover travel expenses to Addis Ababa. Accommodation and most meals during the stay in Ethiopia will also be covered. This support aims to remove financial barriers and allow participants to focus fully on the learning experience.
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to researchers and analysts working in various African institutions. This includes individuals from ministries, revenue authorities, other government agencies, universities, and research institutes across the continent. Applicants should have a background relevant to public finance and development economics.
Particular encouragement is given to suitably qualified early-career female researchers. This reflects a commitment to promoting gender diversity and supporting the development of women in the field of public finance research.
Application Process
The deadline for submitting applications is June 7, 2026, at 23:59 UTC+3. Applicants are required to answer each question on the application form clearly and completely in English.
A crucial part of the application is a letter of reference. This letter must be provided by a referee and sent directly via email to [email protected] before the application deadline. The applicant’s full name must be included in the subject line of the email.
Interested individuals can apply through the official application portal. For more detailed information about the program and the application requirements, please visit the UNU-WIDER website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UNU-WIDER/African Union Winter School on Public Finance 2026?
It’s a program designed to give African policy analysts and researchers practical skills in public economics, focusing on quantitative analysis of public finance issues.
When and where does the winter school take place?
The program has an online methods workshop from July 28-30, 2026, and an in-person course in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from September 14-18, 2026.
What topics will be covered in the winter school?
Topics include public finance principles, tax evasion, informal economy, redistribution, social protection, empirical methods, data handling, and AI in public finance.
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, especially early-career female researchers.
