Penn GSE faculty projects awarded grants by Penn Global

Two projects led by faculty from Penn GSE have been selected for funding by the Penn Global Research and Engagement Grant Program this year.

The grant program supports scholarly initiatives that expand knowledge and develop globally impactful solutions, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration to address key global challenges.

Penn GSE Associate Professor Sharon Wolf and Senior Lecturer Amrit Thapa will present their projects along with the other recipients from around the University at Penn Global’s Grant Program Town Hall, scheduled for Thursday, May 2, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Perry World House.

Grants were awarded to the following Penn GSE faculty projects:

Poverty reduction and children's neurocognitive growth in Cote d'Ivoire: This project, led by Wolf, targets improving child development in Cote d'Ivoire through economic interventions such as cash transfers. It will assess the neurocognitive impacts of these transfers using innovative tools like functional near-infrared spectroscopy to show how economic interventions can support the eradication of poverty and ensure that all children flourish and realize their full potential.

Education and economic development in Nepal: Thapa’s study aims to uncover the influence of education on Nepal’s economic development. By integrating quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights from local educational environments, the project seeks to inform sustainable development efforts. It will culminate in the publication of a comprehensive book on the subject.

Learn more about the projects awarded grants from the program on the Penn Global website.