The Virtual Institute organizes professional development workshops on issues related to trade and development for its university members based on Vi teaching materials, or on issues requested by the universities.

During Vi workshops, participants not only acquire knowledge on a particular topic, but also research skills, and learn how to communicate research results to non-specialists. Round-table dialogues between researchers and policymakers which are part of these workshops help build trust between the two groups as well as establish contacts and potential working relationships. The aim is for researchers to become more policy relevant and for policymakers to source research inputs in their own countries.

Recent Vi workshops:

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, April 25-26, 2013 - Workshop on development challenges and policy options for managing the extractive sector: Options available for increasing government revenue, best practices and lessons from successful economies

Geneva, October 10-14, 2011 - Workshop on Trade and Trade Policy Analysis (preparation site for registered members only)

Kampala, Uganda, August 15-19, 2011 - Workshop on Trade Policy Analysis Panel Data Methods

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, May 17-20, 2011- Workshop on Industrial Development and Globalization

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, July 12-16, 2010 - Workshop on the Teaching and Research of Natural Resources and Economic Development

Kampala, Uganda, November 10-14, 2008 - Workshop on the Teaching and Research of Economic and Legal Aspects of International Investment Agreements (IIAs)

Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania, 19-23 November, 2007 - Workshop on Teaching and Research of Trade and Poverty

Geneva, 11-15 September, 2006 - Workshop on Tools and Methods for Trade and Trade Policy Analysis