Projection of Total Fertility Rate (TFR) In Venezuela

In this research article, the ANN approach was applied to analyze TFR in Venezuela. The employed annual data covers the period 1960-2018 and the out-of-sample period ranges over the period 2019-2030. The residuals and forecast evaluation criteria (Error, MSE and MAE) of the applied model indicate that the model is stable in forecasting TFR in Venezuela. The results of the study indicate that annual total fertility rates in Venezuela are likely to generally increase in the out-of-sample period. Therefore, the authorities in Venezuela should focus on addressing adolescent and young adult challenges, create more demand for family planning services and channel more funds towards women empowerment program activities.