A 5-day training course on "Introduction to Policy Formulation Process and Policy Brief Preparation" was completed. The training, which took place from June 2 to 7, 2024, was provided by the Policy Studies Institute(PSI) for the staff of Debre Markos University. The training was delivered by researchers from PSI.
During the closing ceremony, Dr. Netsanet Jote, the lead researcher, Center Coordinator of the Research Development and Data Management unit and one of the trainers of the training, stated that the training was productive for the University staff. The training covered a range of key topics, including the differences between academic research and policy research and strategies for bridging the gap between these two types of research. It also provided an overview of the policy formulation process in Ethiopia and techniques for writing effective policy briefs. In addition, the different roles and characteristics of think tanks compared to academic institutions such as universities were discussed and opportunities for collaboration and partnership between these two types of organizations were explored.
Dr. Ashagrie Gibtan, lead researcher at PSI and one of the trainers, explained that while both academic and policy research aim to generate knowledge, there are important differences in their aims and approaches that can create a divide between the two. Academic research is more theoretical and focuses on pushing the boundaries of knowledge through rigorous methods, with the primary goal of publishing in academic journals. In contrast, policy research is more applied and focused on informing decision makers in the real world. To bridge this gap, policy researchers need to understand the policy landscape and key decision makers, formulate research questions with clear policy relevance, apply appropriate flexible and pragmatic research methods, communicate findings effectively and in plain language, build relationships and credibility with policy makers, and consider the challenges of policy implementation and evaluation. By applying these strategies, policy researchers can help ensure that their work has a significant impact on policy and decision-making.
H.E. Prof. Beyene Petros, DG of PSI
Dr. Amare Matebu, lead researcher at PSI and one of the trainers , explained the basics of policy, including definitions, meaning, sources and types. Policy refers to a set of principles and rules established by a government, organization or individual for rational decision making that provides guidelines, rules and procedures to achieve certain goals. The need for policies arises from the increasing complexity, uncertainty and unpredictability of the world, as policies help governments and organizations to expedite operations, achieve goals, make decisions efficiently and increase accountability. Policies can come from a variety of sources, such as government ministries, party platforms, civil society, international commitments, research, public opinion and review of existing policies. The training also looks at different types of policies, including substantive vs. administrative, vertical vs. horizontal, reactive vs. proactive, as well as distributive, redistributive, regulatory and constituent policies. In the following modules, the policy-making process in Ethiopia will be discussed in more detail.
Dr. Netsanet Jote, Dr. Haile Andargie and Dr. Getinet Assabu[LR]
Dr. Netsanet Jote, the lead researcher, center coordinator of the Research Development and Data Management unit at PSI said effective partnerships between policy think tanks and academic institutions can play a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic research and policy influence. Policy think tanks provide a deep understanding of the policy landscape and direct engagement with policy makers, helping academic researchers to make their work in a more policy- relevant. In return, academic institutions bring rigorous analytical skills, expertise and access to the latest theoretical and empirical evidence, which enhances the quality and credibility of think tank research. Potential areas of collaboration include joint research projects, secondment programs for researcher and policymaker exchanges, development of policy-relevant curricula, training of policymakers, and joint knowledge-sharing activities. By leveraging the complementary strengths of these two sectors, these partnerships can produce high-quality, evidence-based findings that are more likely to be adopted and implemented by policymakers, ultimately leading to more effective and impactful policy outcomes.
Dr. Mulu Sewinet and Dr. Solomon Ali Gebeyehu[LR]
The aim of the training was to equip Debre Markos University staff with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the tensions between research, policy and institutional dynamics. The lead researcher judged the training a success and emphasized the value of such capacity building initiatives in strengthening the university's engagement in policy making.
Dr. Netsanet Jote Receiving Her Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
The participants of the training also shared their impressions during their five-day stay. The first speaker, Dr. Getinet Assabu, said he was very satisfied as the trainers were very experienced in the respective fields and the teaching was more collegial in nature. He also mentioned that the manner in which the participants were received had a family feel. Dr. Getnet said that all participants, including himself, were inspired and encouraged to conduct further research after the training.
Dr. Amare Matebu, Lead Researcher at PSI and Trainer
Dr. Haile Andargie also expressed his delight at PSI's warm hospitality. He wished that his university, Debre Markos University, would sign a memorandum of understanding with PSI. Dr. Haile appreciated the significant potential of PSI, the office space conducive for research and the effective handling and updating of the website. He acknowledged that Debre Markos University is an applied university, with 75% on teaching and 25% on research. Nevertheless, he wanted to learn more about public policy research from PSI. Dr. Haile also wanted to learn from PSI how it disseminates and communicates its research findings to policy makers, as he noted that although Debre Markos University conducts a lot of research, communication with policy makers seems to be difficult. In addition, Dr. Haile expressed Debre Markos University's desire to collaborate with PSI on joint research projects, including grant writing and joint publications. Finally, Dr. Solomon also expressed his delight with the entire training and paid tribute to the institute. He wished peace, health and success for all.
Dr. Ashagrie Gibtan Receiving His Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
Dr. Ashagrie Gibtan, who represented the trainers, also commented on the training. He said that the trainees were very satisfied with the training. The classes were interactive and full of energy, and Dr. Ashagrie advised the trainees to take their fresh energy back to their work environment and apply it there.
Dr. Getinet Assabu Receiving His Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
H.E. Prof. Beyene Petros, the Director General of PSI, then addressed the participants. He explained that their participation in this training showed their commitment to their profession as traveling from their workplaces would have required additional sacrifices from them. H.E. Prof. Beyene mentioned that PSI often reviews the critical mass for any research conducted and he encouraged the trainees to participate in PSI's research agenda based on their specializations. He reminded the group that a Ph.D. holder in IT from Debre Markos University is already involved in PSI's research.
Dr. Haile Andargie Receiving his Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
Furthermore, H.E. Prof. Beyene explained that PSI offers various opportunities to its partners. As an example, he cited the recent AGP major project where many of the data collectors in the 133 districts of the country had collaborated with PSI in one way or the other. Prof. Beyene advised the trainees to get acquainted with PSI researchers as they could then collaborate on grants, publications and other joint research projects.
Dr. Mulu Sewinet Receiving his Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
H.E. Prof. Beyene also reminded the trainees that the support currently being given to the staff of Debre Markos University was previously given to Tigray Institute of Policy Studies(TIPS) whose staff came to PSI under the full auspices of PSI to undergo the same training. This underscores that it is the responsibility of the government and PSI to support and rehabilitate any institute facing challenges.
Dr. Mesfin Fekadie Receiving his Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
Also, H.E. Prof. Beyene mentioned that PSI has donated computers and some furniture to the TIPS. In recognition of this support, the TIPS expressed its gratitude to PSI in the form of a certificate. H.E. Prof. Beyene also mentioned that PSI is working hard to improve its ranking among African think tanks, noting that it is currently ranked ninth among African think tanks.
Dr. Solomon Ali Receiving his Certificate from H.E. Prof. Beyene
H.E. Prof. Beyene acknowledged that the staff of the institute work day and night to give the institute quality and that they frequently publish in reputable peer-reviewed journals. H.E. Prof. Beyene emphasized that researchers must publish to reach the next level of research rank, lead researcher being the highest rank at the institute.
Furthermore, H.E. Prof. Beyene advised the trainees to work in teams, as scientific knowledge alone could not lead to success. He suggested that different teams, such as statisticians, language editors, content editors and reviewers, are needed to be successful in research and projects. Prof. Beyene also thanked all the trainers by name: Dr. Amare Matebu, Dr. Ashagrie Gibtan and Dr. Netsanet Jote. Finally, a certificate handling ceremony was held and all participants - Dr. Getinet Assabu Ewunetu, Dr. Haile Andargie Wondalem, Dr. Mulu Sewinet Kerebih, Dr. Mesfin Fekadie Admassu and Dr. Solomon Ali Gebeyehu- received their certificates of completion from H.E. Prof. Beyene Petros.
Overall, the training on policy formulation and policy brief preparation has provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the key elements and best practices in these critical policy development processes. By exploring the policy cycle, identifying stakeholders and understanding the importance of evidence-based policymaking, participants are now better equipped to effectively contribute to the design and implementation of impactful policy. Sessions on brief report structure, writing style, and communication strategies have equipped participants with the skills necessary to translate complex research and analysis into concise, influential policy recommendations.