UCA and CERP to Enhance Evidence-Based Policymaking in Central Asia

The University of Central Asia (UCA) commenced partnership with the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding on 9 December 2021. Both parties came virtually together to share their mission and objectives and agreed to collaborate on furthering evidence-based policymaking in Central Asia, particularly in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan.

Mr Maroof Ali Syed, CEO of CERP, noted that, “Our cultural and traditional links go back for centuries, and I believe that by working together, we can harness a significant relationship between both organisations for the benefit of our communities.”

The MoU aims at building capacity of policymakers in the region by using research and evidence based rigorous data for informed decision making, and conduct training and policy-relevant analytical work for knowledge generation. By signing this MoU both UCA and CERP’s executive education teams expressed their intentions to collaborate and build capacity. This will include conducting needs assessments, designing capacity building engagements, producing localized knowledge products, and a long-term engagement between the two organisations.

Prof Sohail Naqvi, Rector of UCA, said, “Executive education is a new and exciting area in this part of world, and through our experience we have realized that it leaves a long-term impact. UCA looks forward to helping mobilize technical, financial and human resources for such a significant project.