The objectives of the course are to (i) provide participants with the analytical framework for understanding intergovernmental fiscal economics and various modules of the central-subnational (e.g., local) relationship, (ii) enhance participants’ capacity for successful implementation of public sector resource management reform by analyzing mechanisms for the transfer of resources among governments and identifying ways to address the issue of regional disparities and local resource mobilization, (iii) and increase participants` understanding in the issues of fast restructuring public economy in countries of transition, (iv) enhance the participants’ capacity to understand and use the practical simulation methods on public finance issues (transfers, local taxes).
Course level, target audience
The course has been designed for practitioners, researchers/academics, and trainers in the area of public finance related to local government issues and intergovernmental fiscal relations. Applicants are expected to have a basic knowledge of computer and software usage, e.g. MS Excel. During the course, one day will be dedicated to simple simulations using MS Excel.
Distance Learning
The course organizers will send out distance learning materials at the end of April and will involve participants in a pre-course distance learning project. These materials will cover an overview of issues of financial decentralization as well as those of revenue and expenditure assignments. Course tutors will keep in contact with participants sending out and discussing assignments via email. They will also establish email discussion forums among prospective participants so that they can exchange information and views before the course starts.
Assignments and assessment
The participants will be selected based on the SUN application and completion of a Distance Learning (DL) assignment. Each participant is expected to prepare a presentation on the fiscal decentralization issues of her/his country and the issues of one public sector. These papers will be presented during the course. The participants will be evaluated according to their attendance and contribution to class discussions and workshop exercises.
Teaching methods
The course aims to achieve the right mix of exercises, lectures, and interactive learning methods. This includes the dissemination of materials before the course presentation (paper and/or electronically) and supplementing the content with simulations, case studies, and interactive discussions. Preceding the course the students will receive a distance learning package covering "Concepts of Decentralization" and "Expenditure and Revenue Assignment". Teaching of the DL stage will be conducted via email discussion, guided reading, and a series of exercises via email. It is expected that students will continue to receive support after the course using Internet and Email.
Completed CEU Summer University Application Form
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Notes:
- You may apply to a maximum of two summer courses. In case of being admitted, you can only attend both if the two courses do not overlap in time.
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Inquiries
If you need help or more information during the application process, please feel free to contact the SUN staff via email.
Notification
The SUN Office will notify applicants about the selection results in April. Please check the 'Dates and deadlines' section on the relevant course websites for notification deadlines planned earlier or later. The final decision is not open to appeal.