CE at UP is offering a 5-day introductory course on CGE modelling from 27 - 31 January 2014.
Computable general equilibrium (CGE) modelling has become an indispensable tool for policymakers and analysts to measure the economy-wide impact of proposed policy changes. This course will teach participants the principles of CGE modelling. In addition, participants will receive practical training on the University of Pretoria’s General Equilibrium Model (UPGEM) and GEMPACK solution software. There will be a strong focus on understanding and interpreting the results produced by a CGE model.
Course content
Day 1
- General equilibrium concepts and applications
- Characteristics of different types of CGE models and software packages
- Overview of basic tasks in CGE-based analysis
- Introduction to the GEMPACK solution software package
- First look at the UPGEM model theory and data
Day 2
- Understanding the main theoretical mechanisms in the UPGEM model
- Interrogating the UPGEM database
- Understanding CGE model closures
Day 3
- Learning to use the UPGEM model and GEMPACK software to run basic CGE simulations
- Finding, understanding and interpreting simulation results within GEMPACK
Day 4
- Running CGE simulations on the UPGEM model
- Further training on interpretation of simulation results
- How to present CGE simulation results
- Start working on group assignments
Day 5
- Continue working on group assignments
- Group presentations
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of the course learners will be able to:
- Have an understanding of the general functioning and capabilities of CGE models;
- Better understanding of the structure of the South African economy;
- Ability to run CGE simulations using the GEMPACK software package;
- Ability to properly interpret CGE simulation results
Who should enrol?
The course will benefit economists interested in the economy-wide impacts of proposed policy changes, in particular: Government and Treasury economists and policy analysts (national and provincial); Independent consultants and professional consulting agencies; Academics. (Also for similar officials in other African countries)