World Bank Group Launches Academy to Transform Development Knowledge
The World Bank Group (WBG) has unveiled a new platform, the WBG Academy, designed to equip future leaders with the expertise needed to unlock their countries’ full development potential. This initiative is part of the Bank Group’s strategic shift towards enhancing its knowledge-sharing capabilities.
The WBG Academy will integrate programs from the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) into a single platform. The goal is to ensure that the best global knowledge informs development projects that can be scaled and replicated, thereby influencing global development conversations.
Senior Managing Director Axel van Trotsenburg emphasized the client-centered approach of the Academy. “We will engage with clients through technical exchange, peer-to-peer learning, and by working together to identify best practices and proven solutions.
Academy programs will leverage the Bank Group’s expertise honed through 80 years of development experience and support countries in achieving their ambitious development visions.”
The Academy will focus on urgent global challenges and development needs, offering strategically designed programs informed by innovative technologies. It has already convened several programs for development leaders and practitioners worldwide, with more planned this year for countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and other regions. Key topics include climate change, disaster risk management, water management, and food security.
Arup Banerji, Director for Knowledge and Learning, highlighted the Academy’s role in facilitating knowledge exchange. “The WBG Academy is an exciting new way for us to support client countries, partners, and stakeholders by sharing cutting-edge knowledge and expertise from across the globe,” he said.
Qimiao Fan, Director for Strategic and Corporate Initiatives, led the creation of the WBG Academy. “With a strong focus on South-South learning, the Academy will leverage new technologies, learning methodologies, and partnerships for the highest possible reach and impact, enabling us to replicate and scale successful programs globally,” Fan added.
The WBG Academy aims to transform the knowledge agenda by enhancing engagement among government officials, development practitioners, and Bank Group staff, fostering a collaborative environment for tackling the world’s most pressing development challenges.
