By Nigel Gibbs, RTAC Communications Manager

Education is one of the world’s most precious and essential tools to creating a strong, well-informed, and prosperous society.  The Research Technical Assistance Center (RTAC) recognizes the value of this cherished right with the passing of International Day of Education on January 24.

One of RTAC’s most important contributions to education is the USAID-funded initiative, Together for Early Childhood Evidence: Consortium on Pre-Primary Data and Measurement in Africa (CPDMA).  This project convenes government officials, researchers, and other stakeholders interested in improving policy and programs for early childhood education (ECE) in the continent.  The Consortium bridges the gap between research and practice, facilitating member countries to exchange information and experiences as they work toward building their own data-driven ECE systems.

“Education plays a major role in driving innovation and opportunities for young people, particularly in low- and middle-income countries,” noted RTAC Project Director Sutherland Miller III.  “Our growing network of more than 300 women researchers and 400 plus researchers affiliated with developing-country academic institutions remain a testament to the power of education and the importance it plays in tackling the complexities of development work.”

The RTAC network consists of more than 900 university-affiliated scholars and experts from around the world to offer timely research and actionable evidence to help make an impact in the field of international development.  We are committed to the principles of education and believe it is a transformative tool that can help create pathways to better health, economic growth, a sustainable environment, and peaceful, democratic societies.

To read more about our other work in the education field, view our education resources.