Revolutionary initiative introduces a transformative lens for population studies across French-speaking Africa
A pioneering educational initiative is reshaping the field of population research in Francophone Africa. Through a collaboration between the Capabilities Approach Scientific Thematic Panel of the Union for the Study of African Population (UAPS/UEPA) and the Human Development and Capability Association (HDCA), researchers and practitioners now have access to a comprehensive training tool on the Capabilities Approach (CA), a framework that could revolutionize how human development and population dynamics are studied on the continent.
Bridging Theory and Practice
Originally developed by Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, the Capabilities Approach centres on the freedom to live the life one has reason to value.” It shifts attention from narrow demographic indicators to the broader freedoms and opportunities people have. The Capabilities Approach offers the conceptual tools that were lacking to truly implement the ICPD paradigm putting the individual at the centre of concerns,” notes the project documentation.
Closing a Critical Gap
Globally, the CA has shaped diverse fields, but its integration into population research in Africa, especially Francophone Africa, remains limited. French-language training resources are scarce, despite strong interest from researchers. This initiative fills that gap with a series of context-specific training modules designed for African realities. Coordinated by the University of Geneva’s Institute of Demography and Socioeconomics (IDESO), the project reflects years of joint effort by African and international scholars.
Innovative Digital Learning
To overcome barriers of geography and cost, the training tool uses recorded modules, or “capsules.” These flexible resources can be incorporated into university curricula, research workshops, or professional development programs. Currently, seven capsules are available, covering both theoretical foundations and applied case studies. Educators can mix and adapt the content to suit their audiences.
Structured Learning Journey
The training unfolds in three parts:
- Foundations – Introduction to the CA in African population studies (Prof. Claudine Sauvain-Dugerdil and team).
- Core Concepts – Modules on philosophy, history, and key concepts (Dr. Kevin Lompo).
- Applications – Case studies and sectoral uses, such as:
- Health applications (Prof. Sophie Mitra)
- CA for Population Issues: Introduction (Prof. Cl. Sauvain-Dugerdil)
- Reproductive freedom in Burkina Faso (Dr. Moussa Lonkila Zan)
- Maternal health and social networks in Mali (Dr. Siaka Cissé)
Led by Experts, Rooted in Africa
The project brings together leading African and international voices, including:
- Dr. Siaka Cissé (Mali, National Statistics Institute)
- Dr. Abdoul Moumouni Nouhou (GRADE Africa, Niger)
- Dr. Nathalie Sawadogo & Dr. Moussa Lonkila Zan (Burkina Faso, Institute of Population Sciences)
- Prof. Mohammed Bedrouni (University of Blida, Algeria)
Chaired by Claudine Sauvain-Dugerdil, Honorary Professor, University of Geneva and chair of the UAPS CA panel. They were supported by the HDCA Francophone Africa Regional Network (coordinated by Dr. Samba Diarra, Mali, and Achille Tokin, Benin) and international experts such as Prof. Jean-Luc Dubois (IRD, France).
Supporting Educators and Learners
The tool is designed to be practical and user-friendly. Educators receive secure access to the modules and facilitation guidance for discussion sessions, while learners can earn certificates upon completing module evaluations.
To ensure quality, the project team offers ongoing support through distance consultation and, where possible, participation in live discussions.
Building a Research Community
Beyond skills training, the project seeks to strengthen a continental research network applying CA to population studies. This network builds on years of UAPS and HDCA collaborations, including conferences, workshops, and webinars that have mobilized researchers, doctoral students, teachers, and statisticians across Africa.
Transformative Potential
Introducing the Capabilities Approach in Francophone Africa is more than an academic exercise—it’s a paradigm shift. By focusing on capabilities and freedoms, researchers can better understand the roots of inequality and develop evidence-based responses to challenges such as reproductive health, education, urbanization, and migration.
Looking Ahead
As the training tool rolls out, it promises to shape the next generation of African population research—rooted in African contexts, globally relevant, and policy-impactful. It also showcases the power of collaborative partnerships between African institutions and global networks in creating resources that are both rigorous and practical.
For African universities, research centres, and development organizations, this training is a unique opportunity to strengthen analytical capacity while advancing the human development agenda.
Interested educators and researchers can contact UAPS/UEPA to register and gain secure access to the Capabilities Approach training modules.
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