BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 30. The Asian
Development Bank (ADB) is establishing a new learning platform
aimed at strengthening knowledge sharing across its developing
member countries (DMCs), helping them address complex development
challenges through tailored programs grounded in real-world project
experience, Trend reports via the Bank.
The new ADB Center of Excellence will serve as a bank-wide
coordination hub, channeling in-house expertise and advanced
knowledge from partners, including the ADB Institute, to DMCs. It
will focus on operationally critical areas such as procurement,
environmental and social safeguards, financial management, and
sector-specific operational practices.
From the second half of 2026, the Center will begin delivering
programs for government officials, project implementers, and
representatives of the private sector and civil society. Its
customized curricula will include training materials and case
studies drawn directly from ADB-funded projects and programs, with
the aim of strengthening the development impact of the bank’s
operations.
ADB said the Center will adopt a programmatic approach, allowing
for the systematic development of institutional capacity in DMCs
and sustained engagement over longer periods. It will also promote
peer-to-peer learning and foster closer knowledge collaboration
with DMC institutions and development partners, expanding access to
new ideas, expertise, and innovation.
The establishment of the Center is anchored in ADB’s new policy
for technical assistance (TA), which places greater emphasis on
capacity-building initiatives. By streamlining its TA operations,
ADB aims to provide more effective and efficient support to its
DMCs in the preparation, financing, and implementation of
high-impact development projects across the region.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting
inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth in Asia and the
Pacific. Founded in 1966, the bank is owned by 69 members—50 from
the region—and works with governments and partners to address
complex challenges through innovative financing, strategic
partnerships, and knowledge solutions.
