Basics
| Period | 5A |
| Start Date | 15 Apr 2024 |
| End Date | 8 May 2024 |
| ECTS credits | 4 |
| Instruction language | English |
| Coordinator | F. Gassmann |
| Teaching methods | Project Based Learning; Lectures; Assignment; Skills; Presentations; Work in sub-groups |
| Assessment methods | Participation; Group assignment; individual assignment |
| Keywords | National Accounts; Social Protection; Pensions |
Full course description
National social protection systems are designed to provide income as well as health security in times of need and to prevent people from falling into poverty. Many countries redistribute – through tax and contribution collections and benefit payments – significant portions of the national economy, usually expressed in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). Efficient governance supported by sound quantitative studies can make a lasting difference in peoples’ lives. Quantitative specialists working for social protection systems must anticipate future uncertainties and complex interrelations between different systems. Effective quantitative analysis of current and projected social protection systems support policy decisions on the design and monitoring of social protection systems. This course will develop students’ understanding of advanced quantitative studies and the actuarial modelling required for the sound financial governance of social protection systems, including social insurance pensions. The course provides knowledge and modelling tools needed for the effective design, management, and monitoring of national social protection systems.
Course objectives
- Enhance knowledge of quantitative analysis and projection methodologies
- Enable students to build simplified, country-specific models, primarily on social insurance pensions
- Deepen understanding of policy and design of social protection schemes
- Ability to discuss and analyse major policy reform options based on sound quantitative analysis
- Equip students to participate in the financial planning of social protection schemes
Prerequisites
Prior knowledge of Excel is highly recommended
Recommended reading
- Plamondon, P., Drouin, A., Binet, G., Cichon, M., McGillivray, W., Bédard, M., Perez M. & Hernando (2002). Actuarial Practice in Social Security. Geneva: ILO/ISSA, Part IV, chapters. 7.4, 8, 10, 11
- ILO (2021). World Social Protection Report 2020-22: Social protection at the crossroads – in pursuit of a better future. Geneva.
- ISSA, ILO (2016). ISSA-ILO Guidelines on Actuarial Work for Social Security. Chapter 1. ISS/ILO.
Course reader
