Recently, AGRODEP offered a basic level course on Computable General Equilibrium Modeling using GAMS. This was a 10-day training course held in May 2012—the longest offered by AGRODEP so far—and was co-organized by Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA), the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), and the Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP). The course was co-hosted by ASARECA, located in Entebbe, Uganda, and the training was conducted by Véronique Robichaud of Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
The objective of the training was for participants to enhance the understanding of the theoretical foundations of CGE modeling and to learn how implement such models. The course covered a basic review of the GAMS software including most common programming errors that modelers encounter. The instructor also explained how to use a model representing an open economy and modify a simple model in order to take into account certain specificities. Finally, she also provided instructions on how to explain simulation results.
Fifteen AGRODEP members (Johannes Atemnkeng Tabi, John Ele-Ojo Ataguba, Olumuyiwa B. Alaba, Olusegun Joshua Ajetomobi, Babatunde Abidoye, Nnaemeka Chukwuone, Oscar lngasia Ayuya, Patterson Chukwuemeka Ekeocha, Patrick Irungu, Youssouf Kone, Job Kibiwot Lagat, Naomi Muthoni Mathenge, Francis Mwaura, Nimenya Nicodeme, and lndranarain Ramlall) attended the training course from seven different countries in Africa. They gave high ratings for the quality of the course and provided valuable feedback that can be used to improve future training experiences of AGRODEP members. AGRODEP members also appreciated the efficiency and dedication of the ASARECA staff.
John Ataguba, a researcher at University of Cape Town stated his experience about this course:
"I really enjoyed the introductory Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) modeling training sessions. Though the training was rigorous, the facilitator was very helpful and encouraging. Being new entrants to CGE modeling, we began from the scratch by laying the blocks one after another. The first model we built was a simple closed economy. We then added more blocks to get closer to reality. All these culminated in a generic open economy model. In the end, I acquired profound knowledge of CGE modeling over and above its basics. I am really proud to be a member of the AGRODEP. The opportunity that AGRODEP has afforded me to learn how to do CGE modeling is tremendous and is cherished forever."
Nnaemeka Chukwuone, a Senior Research Fellow/Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Development Research and Department of Agriculture and Economics, University of Nigeria, described his experience on this course:
"I took part in the training on Computable General Equilibrium Modeling with GAMS Basic. The training which lasted for 13 days was very interesting, informative and exposing to say the least. I had attended CGE classes in the past but I did not have the courage since then to do a project using the technique. This training was exceptionally very good and has given me the courage to start modeling. The method of delivery was excellent. The teacher guided us so well and was ready to respond to any question asked. We were taught the economic and theoretical basis of CGE and how to read the SAM, programming with GAMS, and interpretation of results after simulation. We modeled four different economic scenarios - AUTA, AUTETA, EXTER1 and EXTER2. We developed our own models from scratch and tried several simulations.
We also learned several ways and tricks of identifying and correcting programming errors some of which can keep a researcher for days without any headway. We will ever remain grateful to Veronique. She made a difficult terrain so simple. I thank AGRODEP for this wonderful opportunity. I will ever remain grateful. I look forward to being part of the advanced class."
Olumuyiwa B. Alaba, a Senior Lecturer at the Lead City University, wrote his appreciation on this course:
“Over the years I have worked in areas where computable general equilibrium (CGE) model proved to be one of the best tools of explains complete pictures of policy changes in a given economy. However, I have abundant knowledge of the principles and the underlining theories of the connections in a general equilibrium framework, but extremely deficient in the operationalization of this unique tool. The recently concluded GAMS based CGE organized by AGRODEP provides a unique turning point to my capacity to conduct empirical analysis using CGE. The platform provided by AGRODEP is, if you like, CGE training made simple. The principles, theories, hand-on operationalization and interpretations were made simple to learn, understand and use. From exposure to the knowledge of seemingly complicated SAM, to programming in GAMS and the thrills of discovering the abundance of potentials in the use of the tools, one can gladly say this bundle of experience is invaluable. Many thanks to AGRODEP and all the funders of this unique initiative! “
You can find information about this training course, including AGRODEP members who attended, photos taken during the training course, and training materials on the AGRODEP website. Please note that training materials are available only to AGRODEP members.
This course was a pre-requisite for the advanced CGE modeling training planned in November 2012. In addition, this year, AGRODEP will offer four more training courses to AGRODEP members, including “Panel Data Econometrics”, “Household Surveys Data”, “Impact Evaluation and Analysis PROGRAM of Development Interventions”, and “Multicountry and Multisector General Equilibrium Analysis (MIRAGRODEP)”.