The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) has launched the seventh edition of its biennial Ghana Social Development Outlook (GSDO), highlighting the importance of evidence-based research in shaping national development policy.
Speaking at the launch in Accra, Professor Peter Quartey, Director of ISSER, described the GSDO as a key tool for monitoring Ghana’s progress in social development.
He noted that the report, which has been published every two years since 2012, provides accessible, data-driven insights into critical social sectors.
“The GSDO has become an important reference point for academics, policymakers, and civil society. It reflects our ongoing commitment to rigorous analysis that is both relevant and actionable,” Prof. Quartey said.
The 2024 edition features ten chapters covering sectors such as education, health, housing, employment, gender equity, energy, population, and water and sanitation. According to ISSER, the report draws on new data and expert analysis to offer a comprehensive view of social development trends and challenges.
The launch also served as a platform for ISSER to advocate for stronger private sector involvement in supporting research dissemination. Prof. Quartey stressed that producing quality research alone was not enough; it must be effectively communicated to influence decisions.
“Dissemination and advocacy are critical. Research must reach decision-makers and stakeholders in a form that is both digestible and actionable,” he said.
ISSER has, in recent years, stepped up its efforts to make the findings of the GSDO more widely available. Prof. Quartey cited the use of policy briefs, roadshows, and targeted media engagement as key channels through which the institute extends the report’s reach. He also acknowledged the support of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), which has contributed to these outreach efforts since 2019.
“We are especially grateful to ADB Ghana for supporting our dissemination initiatives,” he said. “Their partnership has enabled us to produce summaries of our findings in ways that are easier for policymakers and practitioners to use.”
The 2024 edition will also be accompanied by a new set of policy briefs, each summarising the key findings of a chapter. ISSER officials said these briefs will be made available online, as part of efforts to increase public access and encourage feedback.
The launch comes at a time when there is growing interest in the role of social development indicators in evaluating Ghana’s economic performance. As the country navigates post-pandemic recovery and implements reforms under the IMF programme, analysts say granular insights into sectors like health, education, and employment will be essential.
Prof. Quartey used the occasion to call on other private sector players to follow ADB’s lead by supporting research and knowledge dissemination.
“We invite industry actors to invest in research. It is one of the most direct ways to contribute to sustainable development and informed policymaking,” he said.
