Learning
Decent work and economic growth: Achieving SDG 8

UNU-WIDER is excited to launch our popular MOOC on Decent work and economic growth: achieving SDG 8 as a self-paced course. 

ENROL HERE

The self-paced course provides and in-depth look at new UNU-WIDER research on structural transformation, the developer's dilemma, and transforming informal work and livelihoods, including findings on the effects of COVID-19. It provides research insights that can support policymaking towards the achievement of SDG 8, promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

Learn from distinguished researchers and practitioners in the field of development economics and policy. Course leaders Kunal Sen, UNU-WIDER Director and professor of development economics, University of Manchester, and Martha Chen, Lecturer in Urban Planning and Design, Harvard Graduate School of Design, Co-Founder and Board Member, WIEGO, Chair of BRAC Global Board, and Chair of the WIDER Board, are joined by guest lecturers Andy Sumner, Gary S. Fields, and Mike Rogan, who together bring decades of experience and have contributed to groundbreaking research.

The MOOC, created in collaboration with the SDG Academy, will be available internationally on the edX online education platform for free (with the option to earn a verified certificate for a small fee). 

Key objectives

The Decent work and economic growth MOOC is a self-paced course. Learning materials will be available, including lecture videos, required and optional readings, video interviews, and mini-documentaries, and learners will demonstrate their learning by completing a quiz and participating in the group discussion board with other learners from around the world.

Sign up to learn: 

• What new pathways of structural transformation are available 
• Why it’s time to rethink the informal economy
• How to deal with the developer’s dilemma and avoid rising inequality 
• Where workers are on the job ladder, and how to transition workers to better jobs 

Who should enrol

• Policy professionals who want to understand the policy interventions that can support sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.
• Development practitioners interested in the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8.
• Advanced undergraduates and graduate students interested in economics, development, and other key concepts related to the SDGs.

By attending this course, you will:

• Gain insights from leading experts by learning from distinguished researchers and practitioners in development economics and policy. 

• Access groundbreaking research by diving into the latest research projects conducted by UNU-WIDER on SDG 8 and related themes. 

• Foster global connections by engaging with a diverse community of policymakers, development professionals, and academics. 

• Drive positive change by using evidence-based knowledge to design and implement policies that foster decent work and economic growth.