Deadline: November 9, 2025
Applications are open for the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Applied Research Training (CART) Initiative 2025. The CART is a capacity-building program designed to strengthen research and analytical skills for professionals working on civil registration and vital statistics. It trains participants to conduct their own applied research projects that aims to improve the completeness, quality, and use of CRVS data.
The CRVS Applied Research Training (CART) Initiative focuses on enhancing CRVS systems through supporting applied research on strategies, interventions, and tools. This involves designing projects to address practical questions, employing robust methodologies, and identifying key personnel for effective implementation and publication. The need to strengthen practitioners’ research capacity is evident, as highlighted in the Asia-Pacific CRVS research forum held in 2023. Challenges include limited time for essential research activities within program settings, hindering the completion and utilization of quality research. Additionally, building a critical mass of trained researchers is crucial, as talented individuals may not engage in research, leading to a shortage of research capacity.
Training Details
The CART is a 1-year training program. It provides a structured and supportive environment for researchers working on CRVS topics. It combines e-learning resources, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities such as in-person workshops to enhance quality and impact of research projects.
- E-learning Training Resources
- Offers e-learning materials with video, audio, and interactive formats.
- Designed to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Self-paced modules allow learners to revisit or skip content based on prior experience.
- Modules are released progressively to support continuous learning.
- Includes forums and live sessions for participant interaction.
- Mentor Matching
- Researchers are paired with mentors based on expertise and research focus.
- Mentors provide guidance on technical and contextual aspects of CRVS research.
- Support includes help with research design, analysis, and dissemination.
- Continuous Support
- CART team reviews research modules and provides feedback.
- Office hours are available for Q&A on research methods and materials.
- Mentors remain accessible throughout the research process.
- Post-training support includes help with finalizing papers, journal submissions, and strategies for uptake.
- In-Person Workshops
- Held twice through the training
- Researchers present proposals and receive peer feedback.
- Workshops include group work, discussions, and skill-building activities.
- Alumni Network
- Graduates join a growing community of CRVS researchers.
- Opportunities to mentor future CART participants.
- Continued engagement in CRVS research and collaboration.
Eligibility
- This program is only available to practitioners residing and working in ECA or ESCAP member countries.
- All research projects will be reviewed for their relevance to CRVS systems, originality, potential for discussion, and feasibility. Admission to the program is competitive and based on the project’s intent.
Application
The application deadline is November 9, 2025. Applicants will be notified of outcomes in December.
For more information, visit CART.



