Overview of research programs

The Center's previous strategic plan (2002-2006) identified two broad areas of research: linkages between urban health and poverty, as well as critical and emerging population and health issues. During this period, our research covered a range of themes, including urbanization and poverty dynamics; fertility; sexual and reproductive health and rights; education; transition to adulthood; maternal and child health; adult health and aging; HIV and AIDS.

 

Over the next five years, the Center will refine these research efforts by organizing them into four substantive areas of work:

• Urbanization and Wellbeing;
• Population and Reproductive Health;
• Health Challenges and Systems; and
• Education Research Program (ERP).

These research priorities have been selected to respond to needs identified by African governments and by multinational bodies and frameworks including the MDGs, the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), the Economic Commission for Africa, the African Union, and the World Health Organization, among others. Within each theme, we are particularly focusing on areas where there are considerable knowledge gaps and where building on our past investments and current strengths holds the greatest potential to improve the wellbeing of Africans.

Our methods include primary research projects where we collect new data; secondary analysis of existing data; synthesis of evidence; scenario building; and monitoring and evaluation of interventions. We are also seeking to develop and use new methodologies, partnering with other institutions as needed.