On the occasion of the 3^rd Africa Convention on Social and Economic Wellbeing (ASEW 2024), we propose to hold a 6-hour workshop for young scholars to share their varied experience on the theme “Social and Solidarity Economy Leadership role in Regional Economic Development”. This gathering serves as a dynamic platform for young researchers to explore critical thematic areas, addressing contemporary economic challenges and developments. As the global economic landscape undergoes dynamic shifts, the need for in-depth dialogues on economic policies becomes imperative. This workshop aims to facilitate these conversations and critically assess the impact of global economic trends on the African economy, providing nuanced understanding for policymakers and researchers. The ultimate goal is to empower decision-makers with the knowledge needed to make informed choices for the benefit of continent, particularly on the role the social and solidarity economy in regional integration and development. Recognizing the need for innovative solutions, the workshop will explore thematic areas such as:  The Role of Social and Solidarity Economy Enteprises in Economic Development; Public Finance and Economic Policy; Climate Change; Innovation, Technology, and Digital Economy; Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME); Healthcare Systems; Governance; Agriculture; and the Role of Private Sector in Economic Development. Themes:

• Decentralization and Community-led Development: How can social and solidarity economy initiatives promote decentralization and community-led development in regions, leading to more equitable and sustainable economic outcomes?
• Regional Governance and Policy Frameworks: How can policy frameworks at the national and local levels support the growth of social and solidarity economy initiatives in regions, and what are the challenges in implementing these policies?
• Environmental Sustainability and Climate Justice: How can social and solidarity economy initiatives contribute to environmental sustainability and climate justice in regions, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management?
• Digitalization and AI: How can digital technologies be leveraged to support social and solidarity economy initiatives in regions, enabling access to markets, information, and services?

Objective:

Specifically, we will accept emerging scholars whose research interests seeks:

• Foster in-depth dialogues on economic policies instrumental in achieving and sustaining robust growth and development.
• Critically assess the impact of global economic trends on the African economy, providing nuanced understanding for policymakers and researchers.
• Ideate and explore innovative solutions and strategies to enhance economic development, encouraging a proactive approach to contemporary challenges.
• Facilitate robust international collaboration and knowledge exchange among economists, fostering a global network for addressing shared economic concerns.
• Promote modern innovative and sustainable solutions to the challenges of Agriculture, Healthcare, Environment, and Climate Change, advancing environmental protection, social well-being, and economic prosperity