Higher Education Solutions Network - Quarterly Report

The lab has focused on designing and organizing the Conflict and Development Strategy Workshop, which aims to frame and prioritize issues concerning development interventions and policy responses in fragile and conflict-affected states. The workshop planning process has involved engagement with researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders from across the Texas A&M System, USAID representatives, partner higher education institutions, foundations, private sector firms, NGOs, and institutional representatives from fragile and conflict-affected states. The lab has also continued ongoing research at the Strategic Analytics Lab, utilizing macro databases and other data assets to understand underlying relationships among poverty, food security, technology, development assistance, and conflict. Additionally, the lab has input, coded, and aggregated additional micro and macro data to expand existing databases. Furthermore, the lab has disseminated knowledge and training through various initiatives, including providing an undergraduate and graduate course on the Economics of Conflict and Development, designing a certificate in conflict and development, founding the Conflict and Development Academy, and collaborating with the Bush School for Government and Public Service through a Capstone Project. The lab has also made significant progress in building partnerships and collaborations. The HESN launch event in Washington, D.C. provided an opportunity for the lab to connect with other HESN member institutions and USAID staff. The lab has also strengthened key partnerships at Texas A&M University by creating Senior Advisor positions and initiated collaborative opportunities with fellow HESN member institutions. Importantly, the lab has supported close coordination with USAID counterparts throughout program implementation in the first quarter. The lab has also taken steps to streamline its branding and marketing protocols and expanded its online reach and presence through an interim website and disseminating content across major social media outlets. The lab has also initiated collaborative opportunities with fellow HESN member institutions and strengthened key partnerships at Texas A&M University. The lab looks forward to building upon the dynamic momentum created during the first quarter. The lab's research and activities have been focused on addressing the complex issues of conflict and development in fragile and conflict-affected states. The lab's work has been guided by the principles of conflict-sensitive development and the need to prioritize the needs and perspectives of local communities. The lab's research and activities have been designed to contribute to the development of effective policies and programs that address the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable development. The lab's partnerships and collaborations have been critical to its success, and the lab has worked closely with a range of stakeholders, including USAID, HESN member institutions, and local communities. The lab's work has been supported by a range of funding sources, including USAID and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. The lab's research and activities have been designed to contribute to the development of effective policies and programs that address the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable development.