Guest blog by Vugar Aliyev, IPP ’25
First of all, I came to realize just how much quality education Harvard University provides to learners of public policy. The program went beyond theory and delivered practical tools that can be applied immediately in real-world contexts. I not only learned new knowledge but also gained frameworks that will help me think differently as a policymaker. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to spread these learnings—by recommending the program to colleagues, by introducing new problem-solving methods into my workplace, and by creating a culture that values experimentation and adaptive learning.
One of the most transformative aspects of this program has been the way it reshaped my understanding of complex challenges. Before IPP, I might have thought that a single well-designed solution or a bold political move could “fix” a policy issue such as brain drain. Now, I know that these problems require iterative exploration, constant testing of ideas, and learning from what does not work. Quick, one-off interventions rarely succeed. Instead, sustainable progress requires bringing in multiple stakeholders, listening to diverse perspectives, and creating space for collective problem-solving.
The fishbone diagram exercise was particularly powerful in this regard. It forced me to move away from surface-level explanations and instead dig into the structural causes of brain drain. I identified a range of contributing factors: lack of career opportunities at home, mismatch between skills and labor market needs, weak reintegration policies for returnees, and even cultural barriers. This gave me a much clearer picture of the challenge, as well as entry points for action.
Another key lesson I will take with me is the importance of team-building and authorization. Progress in public policy does not come from isolated actions or individual efforts. It emerges when legitimacy, support, and collective energy align. During this program, I saw how crucial it is to engage authorizers early and to build coalitions that can carry the weight of the problem-solving journey.
This also required me to think differently about my own role. As a policymaker, I am not just the person who designs solutions—I am also the convener, the bridge-builder, and the communicator who can bring diverse actors together. This shift in mindset will guide my future work, reminding me that complex problems cannot be solved in silos but must be tackled in ways that bring society along with them.
Throughout the IPP journey, I focused on the pressing issue of brain drain—the outflow of talented young professionals and students—and the need to build effective mechanisms for returnees in Azerbaijan. This problem not only affects the labor market but also the country’s long-term socio-economic resilience.
Progress and Insights
- Problem Framing: Using the PDIA approach, I realized that the challenge is not only “people leaving” but also “insufficient structures for their return and reintegration.” That was a turning point in how I framed the problem.
- Fishbone Diagram: The analysis showed causes across four dimensions: limited job opportunities, mismatch between skills and labor market demand, weak institutional support, and cultural/social barriers faced by returnees.
- Team Building: I started small, engaging with NGO colleagues, academics, and MPs who share concern over the issue. Over time, I managed to bring authorizers into the discussion, including parliamentary colleagues who see the strategic importance of human capital retention.
- Learning from Others: Conversations with returnees themselves provided insights no report could capture. Their struggles with recognition of qualifications, access to housing, and professional networks highlighted gaps in our policies.
Before IPP, I might have tried to propose a comprehensive strategy right away. Now, I know the value of small, measurable steps, testing ideas, and creating space for adaptive learning. Going forward, I will apply this to parliamentary initiatives, NGO projects, and international platforms like COP29.
I am already applying IPP tools by:
- Advocating for pilot reintegration programs for returnees in parliament.
- Initiating discussions with ministries and NGOs about data collection on returnees.
- Building an informal coalition of stakeholders who see the link between human capital and sustainable development.
Words of Wisdom for Fellow Practitioners
Progress may feel slow, but each iteration builds momentum. Celebrate small wins, learn from failures, and do not underestimate the power of mapping your authorizers, implementers, and users. Above all, remember that public policy is about people—their needs, aspirations, and lived realities.
This is a blog series written by the alumni of the Implementing Public Policy Executive Education Program at the Harvard Kennedy School. 36 Participants successfully completed this 5-month hybrid program in September 2025. These are their learning journey stories.