About RIPS 

History

Established in 1972 through a joint initiative by the Government of Ghana and the United Nations, the Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS) was fully integrated into the University of Ghana in 1999. Originally tasked with training demographers for Anglophone Africa, RIPS has since evolved into a premier center for population science education, serving the entire continent.

RIPS

Our Philosophy

The philosophy of the Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS) is rooted in the belief that rigorous academic training and interdisciplinary research are essential to addressing the complex and evolving demographic challenges facing Africa and the world. At the core of this philosophy are the following principles:

  1. Evidence-Based Solutions: RIPS is committed to generating knowledge through research that is grounded in empirical evidence. This ensures that the insights and recommendations provided by the institute are credible, practical, and can influence sound policy decisions.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approach: Recognizing that population issues intersect with various fields such as health, environment, economics, and social sciences, RIPS adopts a multidisciplinary approach to research and education. This helps to provide holistic solutions to population-related challenges.
  3. Capacity Building: The institute emphasizes training future leaders and experts who can apply population science to real-world issues. RIPS believes in empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to make meaningful contributions to society.
  4. Collaboration for Impact: RIPS values collaboration with local, regional, and international partners, understanding that collective efforts are essential for achieving sustainable development goals and addressing global population issues.
  5. Commitment to African Development: While RIPS operates on a global scale, it remains deeply committed to addressing the specific demographic and population issues facing African nations, contributing to the continent’s social and economic development through education and research.

By integrating these principles, RIPS seeks to make a lasting impact in both academia and policy, contributing to sustainable development and improved population outcomes across Africa and beyond.

RIPS

Our goal is training, research, policy influence, and development.

The goal of the Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS) is to train skilled population scientists, conduct interdisciplinary research that informs public policy, and foster collaborations that promote sustainable development in Africa. Through its academic programs and research initiatives, RIPS addresses critical issues such as public health, migration, gender dynamics, and environmental sustainability, contributing to the formulation of effective policies and interventions that respond to the continent's demographic and developmental challenges.

Our Mission

RIPS is committed to producing high-caliber population scientists and researchers equipped to address the demographic challenges facing Africa. Our mission encompasses: