Introduction to Balance of Payments and International Investment Position (BOP/IIP) Compilation and Analysis (MEFMI/UNITAR Partnership Course)

Date: 12 Oct – 13 Nov 2015

Duration of event: 5 weeks

Location: web-based

Programme area: Macroeconomic Management

Fee: No fee

Website: https://www.unitar.org/event/node/359331

http://support.novell.com#sthash.POFt1e7T.dpuf

Event focal point email: pft-elearning@unitar.org

How to apply

Deadline for application: 25 September 2015

Background

Balance of Payments and International Investment Position statistics are key economic indicators used to measure macroeconomic performance and play a key role in guiding macroeconomic policy. They shed light on the size and composition of a country’s external trade in goods and services as well as its financial transactions with the rest of the world. They also provide information on the economy’s international financial asset and liability position. All these are crucial variables in order to assess current and prospective developments in exchange rates and the country’s vulnerability to external shocks. It is therefore of paramount importance that these statistics are compiled based on international best practice, kept accurate, relevant and consistent. This course is intended to introduce and enhance knowledge of the participants in compilation and analysis of BOP/IIP statistics based on the IMF Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, sixth edition (BPM6).

This course will be in two components: the first part is offered through e-learning, and the second will be residential in order to consolidate the material covered through the on-line training, and cover more practical aspects of BOP/IIP statistics compilation focusing on the recently released BPM6 Compilation Guide. The residential component is for those who will successfully complete the e-learning segment.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the course, the participants should be able to:

  • Identify and comprehend the changes in BOP/IIP compilation introduced by the BPM6;
  • Classify and explain the standard components of the BOP/IIP and how they are recorded;
  • Understand the linkages between the External sector and other sectors; and
  • Analyze and give an economic interpretation of the developments in the BOP/IIP.

Content and Structure

The course consists of the following modules:

  • Module 1: Conceptual Framework of the BOP/IIP
  • Module 2: Classification and coverage of the Current and Capital Accounts
  • Module 3: Classification and coverage of the Financial Accounts
  • Module 4: Analysis and use of the BOP/IIP and relationship with other Macroeconomic Accounts

Methodology

In order to ensure the best possible outreach, the course will be delivered through e-learning. Through a multiple-instructional setting, the goal is to achieve the learning objectives by means of learning technologies that match personal learning styles and by the inclusion of non-linear learning that aims at the development of just-in-time skills of adult learners. At the same time, in order to allow participants maximum flexibility of scheduling, the learning will be conducted in an asynchronous manner. Using a state-of-the-art training architecture, MEFMI will combine self-learning with assessments and online discussions. The pedagogy – adapted specifically to professionals in full-time work – will help train participants through various experiences: absorb (read); do (activity); interact (socialize); reflect (relate to one’s own reality).

Targeted Audience

The intended audience includes junior to middle level staff involved in BOP/IIP compilation and analysis from Central Banks, Statistics Offices and Ministries of Finance and Planning within the MEFMI member states namely: Angola, Burundi, Botswana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Additional Information

A certificate of completion will be issued by MEFMI to all participants who complete the course-related assignments and assessments successfully.

Recommended hardware and software requirements for taking our e-learning courses:

  • Platform: Windows XP sp3, Vista sp2, Windows 7 sp1, MacOS X.
  • Hardware: 2 GB of RAM and higher for Vista and Windows 7.
  • Software: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and Adobe Acrobat Reader (downloadable for free at adobe.com).
  • Browser: Internet Explorer 8 or higher; Mozilla Firefox 8 or higher.
  • Internet connection: 128kbps and higher.
  • Note: JavaScript, pop-ups & cookies must be enabled.

For further information about the course, please email:

Dr. Sehliselo Mpofu
Director – Macroeconomic Management Programme
The Macroeconomic and Financial Management Institute of Eastern and Southern Africa (MEFMI)
Email:

Ms. Vivian Namugambe
Programme Manager – External Sector and Natural Resources Management
The Macroeconomic and Financial Management Institute of Eastern and Southern Africa (MEFMI)
Email:
vivian.namugambe@mefmi.org

 

 
ABOUT THE MACROECONOMIC MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME
The Macroeconomic Management Programme seeks to strengthen regional capacity in key areas of macroeconomic analysis and management.  Activities under this programme put special emphasis on practical application and development of hands on skills.  The programme aims at building a cadre of skilled professionals and  provide policy advice within the region to form the foundation of sustainable development.