The Oxford Policy Engagement Network (OPEN) and the Centre for Study of African Economies (CSAE) are pleased to invite you to this masterclass, in which we will explore the critical question of how those aiming to advise policymakers can enhance the impact of their recommendations in the face of complex political dynamics. Dr. Shaheen Naseer will moderate a conversation between Professor Stefan Dercon, Director of CSAE, and Professor of Economic Policy with Lai Yahaia, former Special Advisor to the Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria, and Adeyemi Dipeolu, Special Adviser to the Coalition for Dialogue on Africa, to address the challenges in the traditional approach to policy advice. They will discuss how standard recommendations often overlook the intricate political constraints faced by leaders in developing countries.

Through compelling examples from the context of Nigeria and other African countries, the event will showcase how a nuanced understanding of local political conditions can pave the way for developmentally impactful and politically viable policy recommendations.

Speakers:
Professor Stefan Dercon. Director, CSAE, and Professor of Economic Policy.
Mr. Lai Yahaya. Former Special Advisor to the Chief of Staff to the President, Nigeria.
Adeyemi Dipeolu. Special Adviser to the Coalition for Dialogue on Africa. Adjunct Professor at the Nelson Mandela School of Governance of the University of Cape Town and Fellow of the Development Leadership Dialogue Institute of SOAS, University of London.

Moderator:
Dr. Shaheen Naseer. Postdoctoral researcher for the Oxford Martin Programme on the Future of Development at the Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford.