LIMA, Peru, Aug. 19, 2016 /CNW/ - Jean Lebel, President of Canada's International Development Research Centre, announced this morning new international cooperation funds to support research in Peru.
The new three-year, CA$1.2 million dollar project aims to transform the social sciences research system in Peru to address persistent poverty despite economic growth. Peru's unprecedented 2004–2013 economic boom has failed to reduce gaps in opportunities, in particular for its young citizens and rural and indigenous women. Known as the "middle-income trap," this situation could worsen with the economic slowdown and the current downward trend in investment.
Led by Peru's Economic and Social Research Consortium (CIES), this project will seek alliances among the State, academia, public and private enterprises, and international cooperation to create a culture of collaboration. In partnership with public institutions including CONCYTEC—Peru's national science, technology and innovation council—CIES will support research on pressing development issues, engage with policymakers, and build alliances with other public and private actors.
Javier Portocarrero, Executive Director at CIES indicated that "It is important that the State interact with the academic world and other stakeholders to design public policies that boost productivity, competitiveness, diversification of exports, and inclusive growth; while promoting institutional development, fewer social divides, more formal employment, and a sustainable use of natural resources. These new funds will help establish strategic alliances with CONCYTEC and other public and private institutions to promote social research and build co-financing models for research competitions, based on the demand for knowledge."
The announcement was made during the event "Dialogue on Research and Public Policies in Peru" held at the Central Reserve Bank of Peru with the participation of members of IDRC's Board of Governors led by its President Margaret Biggs. Also present were Canada's Ambassador in Peru, Gwyneth Kutz, Central Reserve Bank President Julio Velarde, as well as national and international authorities and members of academia. This event was part of a series of visits that IDRC´s Board of Governors is carrying out in Peru.
Jean Lebel emphasized that "IDRC invests in knowledge, innovation and solutions to improve the living conditions of people in the developing world." He added that "IDRC is proud to have supported CIES since its beginnings in 1989 when it was made up of only 5 institutions. Today, 27 years later, it involves 48 institutions dedicated to excellence in research throughout Peru, which is proof of the fact that IDRC's contribution has made a difference."
About Canada's International Development Research Centre
Part of Canada's foreign affairs and development efforts, IDRC invests in knowledge, innovation, and solutions to improve lives and livelihoods in the developing world. Bringing together the right partners around opportunities for impact, IDRC builds leaders for today and tomorrow and helps drive large-scale positive change.
IDRC in Peru
Since 1974 IDRC has supported 290 research activities for an approximate amount of $78 million Canadian dollars. IDRC is supporting research in the country to assess public policies and strengthen initiatives that can promote inclusive growth and drive productivity. IDRC is also currently contributing to research in Peru's agriculture and health care sectors.
About the Economic and Social Research Consortium (CIES)
CIES comprises 48 Peruvian research and teaching institutions in economics and social sciences. CIES supports research and promotes dialogue to foster Peru's development, raising the quality of national debate over key economic, social, and environmental policy options.
SOURCE International Development Research Centre
Lucy Gray-Donald, IDRC, [email protected],+598. 99912957; Iliana Carrasco Díaz, CIES, [email protected], +511.2649855 anexo 108, RPM/cel #981206621
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