Improving and extending the coverage of social protection is the greatest challenge facing social security in Africa, where less than ten percent of the population has access to existing programmes. In some countries of Africa, the proportion covered is as low as five percent. Key to improving and extending social protection is strengthening the financial management of social security schemes.
In this respect, the University of Mauritius, in partnership with the International Labour Office (ILO), Maastricht University and other international organizations, is offering a Master of Science (MSc) in Social Protection Financing. This intensive one-year degree programme, which began in 2010, is designed to equip social security managers and financial specialists to meet the challenges of financing national social protection programmes.
A maximum of 40 students will be accepted for the Masters Programme. Priority for admission will be given to serving officials from African social security institutions and ministries (managers, actuaries, financial and policy analysts), and from organizations representing African workers and employers. Applicants from other parts of the world and with other professional and institutional backgrounds will be considered if space permits.
The Masters Programme will be offered in English. The tuition fee will be USD 8,000. For the session beginning in August 2012 the deadline for submitting applications is 10 August 2012.
The following links lead you to more information on the Masters Programme and an application form: