Mohammad Rifki Akbari

Indonesia

Field of Study: Economic Development

Mr. Mohammad Rifki Akbari works at the nexus of research, policy and practice with over 15 years of professional experience in public policy and economic development at various government agencies and international organizations. Most recently, he has served as a Program Manager at the National Council for Financial Inclusion of Indonesia where he exercised responsibility for managing research and innovation programs to expand access to finance, including through the application of technology-enabled approach and behavioral insights. 

During his Fellowship year, he aims to enrich his academic and professional endeavors with a focus on topics related to digital finance, behavioral economics, and entrepreneurial leadership. He is also eager to expand his network with international experts in the field of financial inclusion, digital innovation and behavioral science. Following his return to Indonesia, he will continue to advocate for innovation and evidence-informed policymaking to improve public services and will strive to build a social enterprise to advance financial literacy and consumer protection especially for the poor and vulnerable.

Mr. Akbari holds a Master’s degree in Development Studies from Melbourne University and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Gadjah Mada University.