Sahel master"s training in agricultural economics (African development program, AID/AFR-C-1267) : final report

Recruitment of qualified students was difficult for a number of reasons: (1) nominations tended to be made by politically powerful ministries rather than smaller departments or institutions; (2) scholarship awards from Agriculture Manpower Development Program funds were not limited to the region; (3) MSU was not given preference over other universities in considering candidates from the Sahel; (4) the educational background typical of candidates from some Sahelian countries was below MSU admissions standards; (5) the most highly qualified candidates often chose to study at French institutions; (6) Sahelian countries lack a degree precisely equivalent to an American M.S.; and (7) government agencies often would not nominate their best employees, for fear they would remain abroad or would be assigned to a different job upon return. Despite these problems (some of which MSU was able to ameliorate during the life of the project), 27 students have graduated (vs. a targeted 26) and another 3 students will soon have completed training. In order to meet the specific needs of the Sahelian students, MSU developed courses on agricultural policy in sub-Saharan Africa and required students to prepare a research paper on a topic directly relevant to Sahelian agriculture. The students received English-language training before arriving at MSU. Special support provided at the University itself included an introductory technical language/discipline familiarization course, and tutorial assistance. Also, MSU faculty visiting the Sahel were available for in-field consultation with program graduates. Although few serious administrative problems were encountered, delays in reimbursements for thesis-related expenses and in responses to individuals" requests to extend their studies (a high percentage of students required extensions to finish their degrees) caused considerable psychological distress to both students and staff. It is recommended that future programs allow more time for students to complete their coursework.