Key skills and expertise

With 41 years of experience, the expert specializes in education sector reforms, skills training, and human capital development. They have led international and local projects, providing policy dialogue, strategic planning, and governance reforms. Notable accomplishments include spearheading education reforms in Africa and Asia, managing ADB's education sector operations, and leading high-level consultations with government leaders. Successfully designed and implemented large-scale projects, such as a USD 1.8 billion education program in Bangladesh, and held leadership roles, including Lead Education Specialist and Practice Leader for Education at ADB.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with various international donors, including ADB, DFID, CIDA, UNICEF, and the World Bank, focusing primarily on education sector projects. Involvement includes project implementation, technical assistance, capacity building, and evaluations. The projects have been regional and national in scope, addressing education reforms, teacher training, and skills development. Geographic locations of donor-related work include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Laos, Sri Lanka, and several countries in Africa and Asia, such as Tanzania, Zambia, and Nepal.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a diverse professional background across sectors including education, labor market and employment, social development, and monitoring and evaluation, the expert has held leadership and advisory roles, such as Lead Education Specialist at ADB, focusing on education sector reforms and skills development. Interdisciplinary expertise includes integrating ICT in education and fostering public-private partnerships. The geographic scope of work spans Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific, with significant contributions to regional and country-specific projects aimed at enhancing human capital and economic development. Extensive geographic experience includes work in over 40 countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Balkans, and the Pacific. Notable regions include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, India, Kenya, and Vietnam, with recurring involvement in education and skills development projects. Deep familiarity with local governance and cultural dynamics is evident, particularly in countries like Zambia and Namibia, where long-term advisory roles were held. Work has addressed regional development issues through strategic planning and policy reform initiatives in diverse international contexts.

Languages and education

The expert is a native speaker of Finnish and is fluent in English and Swedish. These language skills have been utilized in various professional contexts, including international development projects, policy dialogues, and collaborations with multilingual teams across diverse regions such as Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. The expert holds a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Lapland, Finland, with a focus on Teacher Education and Special Education. Additionally, completed a Cum Laude (B.A. Level) Study Program in Special Education at the University of Jyväskylä and the University of Lapland. Also earned a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Ateneo University in Manila, the Philippines, concentrating on strategic management in multilateral development organizations.