On the 19th of June, 2023, the African School of Economics Founder and President, Prof. Leonard Wantchekon, received the Global Economy Prize 2023 alongside Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization, and Dr. Eleni Gabre-Madhin, Chief Innovation Officer of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). The prestigious event was held in Kiel, Germany.

The Global Economy Prize, established in 2005, recognizes individuals who have proposed innovative and transformative initiatives to address the challenges of globalization while promoting a fair and sustainable future. Prof. Wantchekon was honored for his visionary leadership in establishing the African School of Economics (ASE), a Pan-African institution dedicated to advancing research in economics, finance, and public policy, and producing exceptional social scientists and business leaders.

With campuses in Benin Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria, as well as a joint Master’s degree program in the United States, ASE has established a reputation for producing some of the most promising African economists and policy analysts prepared to tackle the continent’s most pressing challenges.

ASE’s vision is to nurture the next generation of African scholars capable of producing frontier research that is informed by the African perspective, and this is achieved through unflagging dedication to the highest standards in teaching and research, with an African focus.

This prestigious award serves as a testament to the incredible contributions and achievements of Prof. Wantchekon and the African School of Economics, ASE.

According to the Global Economy Prize jury, regarding Prof. Wantchekon:

“…With the African School of Economics (ASE), which he founded and directs, he is opening the way for African students to receive an internationally recognized education in economics. The ASE curriculum reflects Leonard Wantchekon’s unique perspective on economic issues by combining rigorous methodological training with multidisciplinary content on Africa’s past and present. It thereby provides students with a high level of understanding of development across the continent.”

ASE Founder and President, Prof. Leonard Wantchekon wins the Global Economy Prize 2023.

The African School of Economics had the privilege to host the DIVIDENDS workshop, a three-day workshop organized by the Peace Research Institute of Oslo (PRIO) in collaboration with the African School of Economics. The workshop took place on the 7th-9th June, 2023 and was attended by ASE Master’s 2 students, visiting professors, as well as virtual attendance by esteemed academics and researchers from across the globe. The workshop centered on the theme “From Curse to Demographic Dividends: Sub-Saharan Africa’s Youth Bulges (DIVIDENDS),” which is based on PRIO’s project of the same title. The project investigates youth bulges, a demographic term where a society has a large population of people aged 15-24, and how a youth bulge curse can be avoided. Whereas a youth bulge “curse” entails greater political violence and repression, this research seeks to examine the possibility of demographic “dividends;” through having a larger and more energetic young population in the workforce, favorable political, economic and social conditions for the youth and overall society could be made possible.

During the three day workshop, speakers discussed multiple dimensions of the youth bulge in Sub-Saharan Africa, including gender, education, and socio-economics by examining contextual factors at/between different levels, such as state policy, civil society, and individuals. To kick-off the workshop, Henrik Urdel, director of PRIO and leader of the DIVIDENDS project, introduced the concept of the youth bulge. ASE professors Zime Songbian, Ian Heffernan, and Gabor Nyeki presented their research that shares common themes to the DIVIDENDS project, including cutting edge research on education, youth, and violence. The fluid dynamic between ASE professors and PRIO researchers demonstrated the alignment of our missions; we want to not only produce excellent research by using astute methodology, but to successfully communicate our research findings in order to positively impact policy.

The final day featured panel discussions from experts and high profile spokespeople of their field. The day began with the Senior Academics Panel Discussion with Ragnhild Nordås and Henrik Urdal, as well as a High-Level Policy Panel Discussion titled
“Economic Dividends: Demographic Dividends and the Future of Africa’s Youth” with Mabingue Ngom, Former Executive Director UNFPA, West and Central Africa, and Prof. Leonard Wantchekon, founder of ASE and professor at Princeton University.

Every lecture was followed by provocative questions by ASE students, creating an ambiance of openness and cordial collaboration. The DIVIDENDS workshop exemplified the collaboration between ASE and world renowned research institutions; stemming from ASE’s mindset of “open community,” our campus becomes a lotus of exchange where advanced learning, research collaboration, and cultural connection occurs between ASE students, professors, and our honored academic visitors.

DIVIDENDS Workshop: ASE collaborates with the Peace Research Institute of Oslo.

On May 24-26, 2023, the African School of Economics (ASE) hosted a three-day methodological workshop as part of the project titled “Socio-Economic Impact of COVID-19 on African Economies, Social Cohesion, and Governance: Evidence from Benin, Burkina Faso, and South Africa.” The goal of the project is to contribute to the policies and strategies to address the immediate and longer-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on economies, social cohesion, and governance in Benin, Burkina Faso, and South Africa. The hybrid workshop was hosted at the ASE campus but was also attended globally by online participants as well as some government officials. Participants included researchers, representatives of government institutions, academic experts, as well as ASE Master’s students. Among the government institution participants in the workshop were the Institut National de la Statistique et de la Démographie (INStaD) and various other Beninese government ministries.

The project is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC- Canada) and carried out in partnership between ASE in Benin, the Groupe de Recherche et d’Analyse Appliquées pour le Développement (GRAAD) in Burkina Faso, and the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR) in South Africa. The objective of the workshop was to establish connections and foster collaboration between internal researchers, external researchers, and key stakeholders so that the methodologies and the outcomes of this research project can be shared, as well as offer some feedback and contributions.

Throughout the three days, speakers discussed the methodologies of the study, data, and the preliminary findings. Facilitating the workshop were Ségolène Eyebiyi and Marcel Vitouley, both researchers at ASE. On day 1, Ségolène Eyebiyi delivered the opening remarks and the presentation of the study’s global methodology. There were also two other presentations from Boikanyo Moloto (CSVR) and Gountiéni Damien Lankoandé (GRAAD) on the methodology applied in South Africa and Burkina Faso respectively. Day 2 featured data presentations by speakers from ASE and GRAAD. Marcel Vitouley (ASE) provided summary statistics on quantitative data collected from a survey in the course of this project, and on secondary data collected from institutions, mainly from the Institut National de la Statistique et de la Démographie (INStaD). Diane Ruth HIEN (GRAAD) outlined both the quantitative and qualitative data collected within the framework of this project.

The workshop finished on day 3 with exclusively ASE speakers. Ian Heffernan and Lucienne Talba discussed two scientific productions from this study “National Identity, Altruism, and the Agreement with COVID-19 Containment Policy in Benin” as well as the “Impact of COVID-19 on Domestic Violence in Benin.” Two blogs from this study were showcased by Pyrrus YEHOUENOU and Michaël FOSSOU, Master’s students at ASE. Afterwards, Leonard Wantchekon offered some closing remarks, and Ségolène EYEBIYI outlined the next steps of the project. Following each presentation, both online and in-person participants asked insightful questions and were able to interact and learn from the various research methods. Through these in-depth discussions, participants outside the project were able to gain a better understanding of the project’s goals and the research process, and could offer their own insights into the project. By having access to ASE’s researchers as well as their extensive international partners, students become immersed in the forefront of research and knowledge production that will be used to positively impact the African continent.

Preliminary dissemination of the research will occur in June 2023 and final dissemination will occur in July 2023, resulting in the release of a book by August 2023.

Check out policy briefs, blogs, articles, and reports from the project here:
https://idrc-covid.africanschoolofeconomics.com/

ASE Methodological Workshop

On May 2, 2023, the African School of Economics (ASE) had the honor to welcome the Chief Economist of Africa Region at the World Bank, Dr. Andrew DABALEN, who gave a talk to ASE students on the macroeconomic outlook of Africa and the West Africa region.

A Kenyan national, Dr. Dabalen has held lead economist positions for the World Bank in Europe, Africa, and most recently was the Practice Manager for Poverty and Equity in the South Asia Region. His dynamic research focuses on poverty and social impact analysis, inequality of opportunity, program evaluation, risk and vulnerability, labor markets, and conflict and welfare outcomes. He graduated with a master’s degree in International Development from the University of California – Davis, and a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the University of California – Berkeley.

After meeting ASE administration and professors in a private informational meeting, Dr. Dabalen met with ASE students to share his presentation titled “Africa Update: Leveraging Resource Wealth During the Low Carbon Transition.” Students learned many insights on how global events, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and COVID19, have shaped the macroeconomic trends of Africa. In addition, he proposed how African countries can restore macroeconomic stability and facilitate trade within their sub-region. The Q&A session that followed sparked discussions about governance in Africa, how to economically cooperate with neighboring countries, and the pathway to reducing poverty on the continent.

The African School of Economics has a proven track record of educating and preparing students to work for large international institutions, such as the World Bank.
Dr. Dabalen emphasized the huge role of African economists and researchers in reshaping public policy and ensuring better governance. ASE and the World Bank share the strong belief that African economists and researchers play a major, active role in the empowerment of the African people.

The World Bank Africa meets ASE

On Friday, June 30, 2023, one of the most brilliant artists in the history of Benin passed away at the age of 85. Pierre Dossou Aïhoun, better known as the artist Gbèmawonmèdé, passed away after fifty years of singing the values of social liberalism, tolerance and the primacy of life and love, but also the infinite generosity of God... Indeed, Gbèmawonmèdé was much more than just a musician. He was also a master of orality, a philosopher, a free-spirited, lively and deep thinker. And his thought deserves to be not only scrutinized more, and taught in our faculties of human sciences, particularly in Philosophy and Sociology, but also popularized with the young generation often in lack of endogenous reference marks.
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When I visited him in 2017 at his home with a team from the African School of Economics (ASE), I was struck by his strong conviction, the clarity in his expression and the originality of his moral philosophy. "'Illegitimate' children are blessed by God, just like 'legitimate' children," he said. And to add: “Morality evolves. No one is the exclusive repository of the will of God. Not even the religious authorities. Let us accept the new realities of life that God makes us discover…”.
 Statements of incredible depth that deserve serious consideration.
 In the coming months the ASE, in collaboration with specialists, will produce unique audiovisual elements on the life, work and philosophical thought of Gbèmawonmèdé. A way to immortalize this icon of Beninese music and this great traditional thinker. Leonard Wantchekon, Princeton, July 10, 2023

Tribute to Gbèmawonmèdé, a timeless artist.

ASE Abuja in collaboration with ‘Shoot Edit Repeat’ (SER) showcased a portfolio
review session for young film-makers within and outside Abuja. 
The event, which aimed at educating young film-makers and cinematographers
about the rudiments of storytelling with pictures and film saw an influx of
attendees connecting and sharing. 
Dada Oluwadabest, who handled the portfolio review session particularly noted the
importance of lighting techniques and plot arrangement. 
Several producers in attendance tabled their works in music videos, event reels,
and documentaries for analysis and criticisms, highlighting what inspires them to
create and what fuels their perspective of film creation. 
Aisha Bama, Director of ASE Arts, noted that the main aim of the event was to
upscale and empower young upcoming film-makers, endowing them with the
skillset necessary to produce world-class films with content and context, utilizing
techniques relevant to their stories. She added that this was ASE’s platform for
young Africans to connect, share and inspire each other. 
This event, spearheaded by ASE Arts, is largely within the scope of ASE’s goal to
inspire young Africans to tell the African story from the African perspective,
promoting cultural and indigenous content.

ASE Arts Hosts Portfolio Review For Film Makers at Abuja, Nigeria.

<h3>Inaugural Episode of The ASE Masterminds Podcast</h3> 

Amidst the ever-shifting dynamics of contemporary society, the modern workplace is becoming a captivating crossroads of behaviors shaped by the generational backgrounds of its individuals. 

The inaugural edition of the African School of Economics (ASE) podcast, titled "Masterminds," held at ASE Abuja campus, delved into the distinct workplace habits and perspectives on life that set apart Generation Z (Gen Z) and Generation X. 

Hosted by ASE Abuja's Communication Officer, Praise Azeh, this engaging dialogue illuminated the divergent approaches towards work ethic, communication styles, and discipline that have arisen between these two generations. 

Speaking were Mr. Tanko Abdullahi, a civil servant, seasoned journalist, and accomplished photographer, and Ms. Maryam Ahmad, an media and communications officer. Their contributions offered insightful viewpoints, echoing the influence of the eras in which they came of age. 

The conversation commenced with an exploration of critical considerations when seeking or accepting employment. While Mr. Tanko underscored the primacy of passion, Ms. Maryam emphasized the necessity of intertwining passion with financial security, given the prevailing economic challenges. 

On workplace attire, both speakers concurred that striking a harmonious equilibrium presents the answer to the divergent generational opinions. 

Another focal point was the pivotal subject of prioritizing mental well-being within professional spheres. The participants embarked on a thoughtful exploration of the idea of changing jobs as a response to mental health difficulties or instances of disrespect from peers or superiors. Both speakers converged on the consensus that individuals must accord their mental well-being the same significance as their physical health. 

This event was an enthralling journey into the contrasts of workplace habits between older generations and Gen Z. In the face of the ongoing evolution of the professional landscape, harnessing the strengths of each generational group while cultivating comprehension and effective dialogue stands as an imperative for nurturing harmonious and productive workplaces.

Inaugural Episode of The ASE Masterminds Podcast.

After the release of the film The Woman King, the history of the Kingdom of Danxome has taken center stage. The film, inspired by the all-female unit of warriors called Agoodjie in the Kingdom of Danxome, used key findings in part from the African School of Economic’s years-long seminal historical research on the Agoodjie. ASE’s research was conducted by its Institute of African Studies, which focuses on research of African history, sociology and anthropology. ASE partnered with Princeton University’s Program in African Studies and the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Hub to facilitate a 2 day webinar called The Origins and Legacy of the Agoodjie. The event was hosted at Princeton University on September 16th and 17th. Leading academic experts attended from a variety of disciplines, highlighting the history and continued relevance of the Agoodjie. 
The first day of the webinar introduced pre-colonial institutions in the Kingdom of Danxome and gave an overview of historical research on the Agoodjie, featuring historians specialized in West Africa, which included Serge Ouitona, ASE’s Director of the Institute of African Studies. In addition, ASE’s founder and president Leonard Wantchekon introduced his book Lives and Legacies of Fifty-one Amazons from Danxome Kingdom. The second panel explored the social, political, and economic institutions in West Africa, which ended with a screening of The Woman King and a message from the director Gina Prince-Bythewood. 
Day 2 continued the intellectual vigor of the first, beginning with a debriefing and discussion on the Woman King led by Professor Wantchekon. The president of ASE then screened his documentary short film highlighting the life and legacy of Essèyi, one of the 51 Amazons of Danxome under Kings Guezo, Glele and Behanzin. The next panel discussed the representation of African women in the visual arts, including African filmmakers as well as prominent art historians. The last panel, titled “Preserving and Building on the Legacy of the Amazons – Future Directions and Policy Recommendations,” discussed the current state of affairs on gender in the Beninese military and society. Finally, the panel addressed where there was room for change in Beninese policy and society. 
Following all the panels, there were dynamic Q&As thanks to the engaging audience. The webinar fostered dialogue, reflection, and action items, demonstrating the continued importance of the Agoodjie not only in better understanding the historical role of women in West Africa, but in reshaping a world history that has for centuries been dominated by Eurocentric worldviews and gender norms.
For more information on the history behind The Woman King, check out these recent news articles: 
<a href=”https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/sep/17/the-woman-king-true-history-dahomey-benin”>The Guardian : “’This is an old story of heroism, of feminism’: Thettruth behind The woman king”</a> 
<a href=”https://time.com/6214291/the-woman-king-true-story/”>Time : “The Complicated History Behind The Woman King”</a> 
<a href=”https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/descendants-amazons-benin-humanity-b1909945.html”>Independent : “The descendants of The Amazons Are Now Fighting To Recapture Their Humanity”</a>

The African School of Economics in Hollywood: The Origins and Legacy of the Agoodjie

ASE invites you to the Scholarship Test for the 2025 Masters Program at the African School of Economics (ASE) in Benin for two programs: Master’s in Mathematics, Economics and Statistics (MMES) and Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). 

These two-year programs are designed to develop world-class future African leaders in Economics, Research and Business and prepare them for their designated Ph.D. programs. Students are equipped with rigorous and evidence-based problem-solving skills to prepare for our continent and the world's challenges. 

ASE offers a unique opportunity to learn with renowned professors from top universities worldwide and has produced 50+ Master’s graduates pursuing their education globally. 

Bilingual: Our program is bilingual (French and English) and we offer free English courses for those who want to improve their listening, speaking and writing skills in English. 

Pre-doc: ASE assists masters students in applying for fully funded PhD programs in the US, Europe and Canada through its 10-month pre-doc funded fellowship program. 

As you embark on your education journey, we encourage you to consider our generous scholarships for MMES and MBA programs and participate in our Scholarship Test for the 2025 Masters Program in English and Mathematics. 

Date: September 1st 2023 

Time: 9 AM 

Location: Online and In-person - Benin, Abomey Calavi 

Register for the test: <a href="https://bit.ly/ASEMastersProgramScholarshipTest2023" style="color: blue;">https://bit.ly/ASEMastersProgramScholarshipTest2023 </a>. 

Join our WhatsApp group here: <a href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/JRVP0uRshbZJSXDOGZOYUY" style="color: blue;">JOIN</a>

ASE Masters Scholarship Test.

Empowering youth through sports: ASE discusses partnership with the Rivers state government.
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Empowering youth through sports: ASE discusses partnership with the Rivers state government.

The African School of Economics and AUDA NEPAD met with Nigeria’s First Lady to discuss partnership on Entrepreneurship scholarships.
 
ASE remains committed to exploring new horizons in education and entrepreneurship.

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