International Training 2025 at the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), SANEM, and ICAR-IARI conducted the 2025 International Training on Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) modeling, featuring classroom instruction and a hands-on research assignment. Learn about the programme, objectives, eligibility, benefits, and how to participate in future opportunities.
Overview
In March 2025, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), in collaboration with the South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), delivered an intensive international training course on Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) modeling. Supported by CGIAR, this programme was created to strengthen the capacity of early-career researchers to analyse economy-wide impacts of policies and economic shocks.
CGE models are crucial tools across agriculture, food security, climate economics, and development policy. The 2025 training combined expert-led instruction with practical research work to enable participants to apply CGE methods confidently in real-world policy analysis.
Training Structure
The programme consisted of two integrated components designed to build both conceptual understanding and applied research experience.
1. Classroom Training
Delivered by senior researchers including Barun Deb Pal (IFPRI), the taught component covered:
- Introduction to Social Accounting Matrices (SAMs)
- Foundations of CGE modeling
- Policy simulation using IFPRI’s Dynamic CGE and Microsimulation Models
- Application of CGE modeling to agriculture, trade, and macroeconomic development
This training ensured participants developed the analytical foundation needed to use CGE models in policy-relevant research.
2. Post-Training Research Assignment
Each participant selected a research topic aligned with their academic interests and national policy priorities.
Participants are now receiving ongoing mentorship from researchers at SANEM and IFPRI to:
- Build and calibrate CGE models
- Run simulations
- Interpret macro-micro linkages
- Prepare policy-focused analytical papers
This hands-on engagement strengthens long-term research capacity across developing regions.
Eligibility
Although the March 2025 cohort has completed its training, similar IFPRI programmes typically target:
- Early-career researchers
- Graduate students in economics, agriculture, development, or related fields
- Policy analysts from government institutions
- Professionals with an interest in economy-wide modeling
- Individuals familiar with quantitative research methods
Future calls for participation may include requirements such as:
- Strong academic background
- Motivation for policy-oriented research
- Basic knowledge of economics or modeling tools
Benefits
Participants gained:
- Technical skills in CGE modeling and SAM analysis
- Direct training from IFPRI, SANEM, and ICAR-IARI experts
- A structured post-training research assignment with mentorship
- Opportunities to apply CGE tools to real policy questions
- Networking with CGE researchers from Asia and beyond
- Recognition and opportunities for future collaboration
The 2025 cohort included 22 participants (9 male and 13 female), representing diverse academic and regional backgrounds.
How to Apply for Future IFPRI Trainings
IFPRI regularly announces training opportunities in economic modeling, food policy, impact evaluation, and agricultural systems. To participate in future sessions:
- Visit IFPRI’s official training portal and events page.
- Monitor announcements from SANEM, ICAR-IARI, and CGIAR research programmes.
- Prepare a strong application that highlights:
- Your academic background
- Your motivation for CGE or policy analysis
- Your proposed area of research or policy interest
- Submit required documentation (CV, statement of interest, academic transcripts, etc.).
Past trainings have been competitive, so candidates are encouraged to apply early when applications open.
Summary Table | International Training 2025 at the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | International CGE Modeling Training 2025 |
| Organizers | IFPRI, SANEM, ICAR-IARI, with CGIAR support |
| Location | India (hybrid instruction possible) |
| Structure | Classroom training + supervised research assignment |
| Key Focus | SAMs, CGE models, dynamic CGE tools, microsimulation |
| Participants | 22 early-career researchers |
| Lead Trainer | Barun Deb Pal (IFPRI) |
| Future Opportunities | Via IFPRI, SANEM, ICAR-IARI announcements |
Conclusion
The International Training 2025 at IFPRI significantly advanced participants’ capacity to use CGE models for evidence-based policymaking. With a blend of expert instruction and guided research, the programme equips emerging researchers to analyse development challenges through rigorous, economy-wide frameworks.
Aspiring participants interested in future IFPRI or SANEM trainings should monitor official announcements and prepare early, as demand for CGE modeling skills continues to grow across the global development field.
