Ayo Akala

Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, a Senior Health Specialist at the World Bank, is a core team member of the Bank’s Human Capital Project Team tasked with supporting countries to accelerate their human capital outcomes. Ayo has over 20 years of experience in human development focusing on health services management, health systems strengthening, and multi-sectoral interventions to address public health issues including malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and non-communicable diseases. Prior to joining the World Bank, Ayo practiced clinical medicine, worked on national public health initiatives, and worked with Medecins Sans Frontieres to support strengthening community systems in Nigeria. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Medicine from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria; a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria; and a Master’s degree in Health Services Management from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.