Pitt's Institute of Politics Offers Free Programs on Changing Economy, Public Education to Area Organizations

January 10, 2003

PITTSBURGH—The University of Pittsburgh's Institute of Politics offers two programs—one on the region's changing economy, the other on public education and accountability—free to business, professional, community, and education organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania's 10 counties.

"Human Capital and the Changing Economy: The Rules Have Changed" provides an overview of southwestern Pennsylvania's economy at the beginning of the 21st century. "Today's Students, Tomorrow's Workers: How Are We Doing?" examines public education and accountability.

"The first presentation takes a look at how technology and globalization have changed our economy in dramatic ways and provides up-to-date useful information on the specific nature of these changes in our region," said Anne McCafferty, director of the Institute of Politics' Human Capital Initiative Project. "We include data on population shifts, occupations with the best potential for growth, skill sets in demand, educational achievement, and the relationship between the educational attainment of a population and regional wealth, as well as case studies of businesses that have located in the region because of our workforce."

The second presentation, offered in cooperation with the Pittsburgh Technology Council/Catalyst Connection, explores the relationship between the economic well-being of southwestern Pennsylvania and the education provided to students in K-12 school systems.

"These students are the next generation of workers," said McCafferty. "Those attending our program will learn about the many factors that affect the performance of a school and an entire school district and be invited to join a region wide conversation and community-based effort to support a culture of learning and skill development."

For more information on either program, contact McCafferty at 412-624-7731 or acm30@pitt.edu.

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