Inauguration ceremony: Public policy research centre opens at FCC

Ambassador Beth Jones says establishment of center is important towards promoting research on policy and governance.

LAHORE:

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Saturday inaugurated the Public Policy Research and Resource Centre at Forman Christian College (FCC).

According to a press release issued on Saturday, Ambassador Beth Jones of the Office of the Special Representative of Afghanistan and Pakistan said the project was a “powerful reminder” of the US commitment to help foster evidence-based policy discussion and formulation in Pakistan.

“The establishment of this centre is an important step towards promoting research on policy and governance,” she added.

The resource centre would provide support to those interested in issues of governance and public policy in the Punjab, the press release stated.

Established through USAID’s Small Grants and Ambassador’s Fund Program, the Rs22.8 million centre would support and promote empirical research in Pakistan.

The resource entre is a consolidated venue to provide students, researchers and policymakers with literature, data, and training facilities to pave the way for informed decision-making at all levels.

Work has already begun to digitize official documents, books, journals, and other research materials under one roof and to organized 10 policy dialogues.

In addition, researchers have held two seminars, and completed two research projects.

The centre also plans to offer individual and institutional membership to those interested in participating in the formulation of public policy.

USAID’s Small Grants and Ambassador’s Fund Programme encourages grassroots organisations and community groups to strengthen civil society in Pakistan.  Since its inception, the programme has disbursed nearly $20 million in grants to 141 organisations working to meet local community needs across every province in Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 3^rd, 2014.