TRENDS Research & Advisory, a leading UAE-based research institute, actively participated in the recent "First Africa World Association for Public Opinion Research (WAPOR) SSA conference" held in Mombasa, Kenya. The conference, which ran from April 15th to 18th, 2024, focused on the theme "Shaping a Sustainable Future: The Lessons and Legacies from Opinion Polling in Africa."
TRENDS' participation underscored the institute's commitment to advancing the field of public opinion research and its role in Africa's development journey. The conference brought together a diverse range of researchers and practitioners from across the continent to discuss the importance of opinion polls in informing sustainable development initiatives.
A key focus of the conference was exploring how opinion polls can be leveraged to identify public priorities related to environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social inclusion. Discussions highlighted the crucial role that opinion polls play in understanding public sentiment and tailoring development programs accordingly.
The conference also explored the methodological advancements and challenges within the field of public opinion research in Africa. Sessions addressed the growing influence of digital technologies on how surveys are conducted and analyzed. The importance of ensuring inclusivity in research endeavors was emphasized, with a focus on incorporating the perspectives of women, youth, and other underrepresented groups.
One of the highlights of TRENDS' participation at the conference was the presentation by Dr. Mohammed Farid Azzi, a Scientific Advisor to the Global Barometer Department at TRENDS. Dr. Azzi's paper, titled "The Attitudes of Arab Maghreb Youth towards Reform and Change," explored the nuanced views of young people in the Arab Maghreb region regarding ongoing reform initiatives and their aspirations for the future.
TRENDS' contribution to the WAPOR-SSA conference reflects the institute's ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration on critical issues facing Africa. By sharing its expertise and insights on public opinion research, TRENDS plays a vital role in supporting sustainable development efforts across the continent.