In celebration of its 50th anniversary, RIPS hosted a transformative seminar led by Dr. Pali Lehohla, former Statistician-General of South Africa and an esteemed demographer. Dr. Lehohla’s seminar delved into the dynamics of Africa’s demographic future, analyzing how population trends could shape development in the coming decades. His presentation emphasized the importance of timely data and accurate demographic insights in forming policies that can respond to Africa’s rapid population growth and its associated challenges.
Dr. Lehohla highlighted critical areas such as youth employment, urbanization, and the demographic dividend, encouraging researchers and policymakers to invest in human capital as a driving force for sustainable development. His insights provided a framework for understanding Africa’s demographic shifts, sparking discussions on how RIPS, as a leader in population studies, can continue supporting innovative research to address these challenges. With RIPS faculty and students in attendance, the seminar reinforced the institute’s commitment to leading data-driven solutions that empower African societies to navigate demographic transitions.