OCS Conference Funding Submission

Event Photo:

Breakout Session with World Bank's Senior Specialist, Diego Ambasz

Discussing Thailand's Universal Health Coverage and Primary Health Case Study

Group Photo with all attendees

Name: Praewa Kulatnam

Degree Program: MPA IN HEALTH POLICY & MANAGEMENT

Specialization: HPM-Health Policy Analysis

Conference Host Organization/Institution: World Bank Group's Office of Executive Director for the South East Asia (SEA) Group

Conference/Competition Name: World Bank Talent Outreach for South East Asian Students in the United States

Conference Term: Spring Conference Start Date: 2025-04-11 Conference End Date: 2025-04-11

What were your takeaways from this conference/case competition?
During the People breakout session, I collaborated with World Bank specialists like Sr. Education Specialist Diego Ambasz and peers from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand to address resilient investments in education, healthcare, and social protection. We emphasized adaptive health financing focused on efficiency, job creation to reduce migration pressures, and preparing for Southeast Asia’s aging population. Our team highlighted maternal and child health as foundational to resilient human capital development. The session reinforced the importance of integrating technology and community-based approaches to strengthen primary healthcare systems, ensuring social safety nets withstand economic shocks and technological change.

How will your participation in this conference/case competition support your professional development?
This program provided me with direct exposure to World Bank experts and Southeast Asian professionals, deepening my understanding of resilient health and social policies aligned with my Health Policy and Management concentration at Wagner. Engaging in solution-driven discussions and networking sessions enhanced my skills in policy design, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and regional development strategies. The experience equips me to contribute to public health reforms and sustainable development initiatives in Thailand. Additionally, the connections I built with World Bank staff and SEA peers open pathways for future internships and collaborations, strengthening my career prospects in international development and public service.

What are some next steps or action items this conference/case competition inspired?
Inspired by this event, I plan to deepen my research on scalable maternal and child health programs that integrate digital tools and community health workers, reflecting the People pillar’s priorities. I will share insights with Wagner peers through study groups and LinkedIn posts to foster dialogue on resilient health systems in Southeast Asia. I also intend to follow up with World Bank contacts and SEA professionals to explore internship and project opportunities. Lastly, I aim to incorporate lessons on adaptive health financing and social protection into my capstone project, ensuring practical application of knowledge gained from this program.

What are some tips or best practices that you would like to share with other Wagner students who attend a conference/case competition?
Prepare thoroughly by reviewing the event agenda, speakers, and thematic areas to engage meaningfully. Actively participate in breakout sessions and networking opportunities to collaborate with diverse peers and experts, enriching your learning and professional network. Take detailed notes and ask thoughtful questions to deepen your understanding. After the event, share your insights through study groups or professional platforms like LinkedIn to reinforce learning and build your profile. Stay open to new perspectives and follow up promptly with contacts to nurture relationships that can support your academic and career goals.

Wagner Areas of Impact: Education, Finance, Government, Health, Inequality, Race, and Poverty, International Development, Leadership