Akylbek Bakytov (Kyrgyzstan – GLODEP Cohort 2021–2023)
Today, I work in the field of development policy and energy transition, contributing to analytical and modelling work that supports evidence-based policy decisions in the Kyrgyz Republic and Central Asia. Looking back, my journey to this work was strongly shaped by the GLODEP program, which helped me connect academic knowledge with real-world development challenges and broaden my perspective on how international cooperation can contribute to solving them.
As an economist originally coming from a developing country, it has always been a personal challenge for me to understand and contribute to solutions for the structural problems many developing countries face. Through volunteering and early professional experiences in humanitarian relief and development cooperation, I realized that I wanted to see a bigger picture. I became increasingly curious not only about how development cooperation works today, but also about its historical roots, the lessons learned from past initiatives, and the different ways in which professionals across the world approach development challenges. This curiosity ultimately led me to choose the GLODEP program.
GLODEP provided exactly the environment I was looking for. At Palacký University in Olomouc, the program began with development theories and a holistic perspective on development, examining the economic, social and environmental dimensions of development policy and how they interact. These foundations helped me learn how to quickly navigate complex information and identify key insights that can later be translated into policy recommendations. At the University of Clermont Auvergne, I particularly valued the courses on quantitative policy analysis and research methods, which strengthened my analytical approach to development challenges. Equipped with these skills, I was grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Student Challenge in Northern Uganda organized by the University of Pavia, where we applied our knowledge to a real development problem in the field.
Reflecting on my journey today, I can clearly see how these experiences shaped me as a professional. The program helped me develop the ability to continuously learn from new knowledge and analytical sources, both quantitative and qualitative, a skill that is particularly valuable in my current work with data modelling and policy analysis. Equally important were the interpersonal skills developed throughout the program: communicating across cultures, networking with professionals from around the world, and approaching challenges with openness and curiosity. Living and studying across different countries and communities shaped not only my professional outlook but also my personal mindset.
Even today, I often reflect on those two years and realize how transformative they were. The experience of studying in different countries, engaging with diverse perspectives, and constantly stepping outside my comfort zone shaped both the professional and the person I have become. I remain deeply grateful for the journey I experienced through GLODEP and look forward to continuing collaborations with this inspiring international community.
Of course, it is difficult to fully capture two life-changing years in a short text. For that reason, I would be very happy to connect with prospective applicants who would like to learn more about the program on LinkedIn. If my experience could help inspire future professionals from around the world, it would be an honor.