The Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP) is an independent institution that aims to improve policy decisions through rigorous quantitative research, engaging policymakers, and recommending data-based reforms. The specific team within CERP that I worked most closely with was the CERP Labs team – a software development team that focuses on building technology solutions to address development issues that impede economic growth.
The team consists of – senior full-stack senior developer, Mudassar; product manager, Sarim; and 2 full-time developers, Hamza, and Saleh. Despite having the necessary qualifications and experience to work in notable technology companies, the software engineering team at CERP Labs chose to build their career in research and non-profit – a career path that I find both inspiring and encouraging for me as someone who chose to transition from the private sector to the public sector.
Having started MiSchool (an information management system for school administrators) as its first product, the CERP Labs team has expanded to build technology tools in various areas of study – including mapping food insecurity issues. This intersection between technology and policy is what I personally think to be lacking in development economics, and many corporate use cases of technology can be transferred to the public and non-profit space. I am encouraged by CERP Labs’ work and reassured that I can help to develop this intersection of technology and policy based on my previous experience.
