Welcome to the Youth spotlight series, where we offer first-hand insights into young leaders in the evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) sector. You can discover their stories, achievements, and impact on our community. This is the heart and soul of the #EIDM movement.
In this conversation, the Africa Evidence Network talks to Dr Oluyemi Theophilus Adeosun, a visionary thought leader and a Research Fellow at Lagos Business School, Pan Atlantic University, Lagos State in Nigeria.
Making a Difference with EIDM:
What inspired you to get involved with EIDM?
I am Dr. Oluyemi Adeosun, and I joined EIDM (AEN) because of their values, missions and goals. They also provide a platform to meet like-minded professionals and network. EIDM offers valuable resources and programs to help build capacity and enhance the ability to excel as a professional who works in policy and requires evidence to advocate for reforms and change. I got involved with EIDM because it is a powerful approach that can transform professional practice and organisational outcomes. EIDM leads to improved results, increased credibility, and more efficient use of resources. It fosters a culture of continuous learning, reduces bias, and can spark innovation. EIDM enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills and provides a competitive advantage in many fields. Moreover, it's an ethical approach that can positively impact society. Engaging in EIDM contributes to personal growth, career advancement, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Can you share a specific accomplishment you're proud of where EIDM played a key role? How did it make a positive impact?
On an ongoing basis, as a Policy advocate, I draw ideas and inspiration from the various stories and articles from colleagues from all over Africa. We sometimes underestimate how the success stories of other EIDM professionals provide strength for others like me. It helps stimulate innovative approaches to gathering and using evidence to inform decision-making. EIDM has provided indirect support for me as a research fellow and equipped me to deal with all stakeholders in the policy space, including donors, beneficiaries, and coalition partners. The improved capacity to extract evidence, synthesise the same, and communicate with stakeholders leads to enhanced outputs and outcomes for my team and me.
Have you faced challenges promoting EIDM within your community or work area? How did you overcome them?
I have faced challenges such as resistance to change and resource constraints like time and funds for elaborate data gathering and research. Sometimes, it isn't easy to get timely support from all stakeholders. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves a multi-faceted approach: gradually introducing EIDM through pilot projects, securing leadership buy-in, training research methods, developing efficient evidence-gathering systems, and emphasising long-term benefits. It's crucial to clarify that EIDM integrates research with expertise and context rather than replacing experience. Developing rapid review processes for time-sensitive decisions, improving data accessibility, and building a network of EIDM champions can help sustain the initiative. Success in implementing EIDM often comes through consistent communication, ongoing education, and demonstrating tangible improvements in outcomes.
Your Vision for the Future:
What are the biggest challenges you see facing EIDM implementation in Africa right now?
The biggest challenges facing Evidence-Informed Decision Making (EIDM) implementation in Africa include:
- Limited Access to Quality Data: Many regions lack reliable data sources.
- Insufficient Funding: Financial constraints hinder research and data collection efforts.
- Capacity Gaps: There is a shortage of trained professionals skilled in EIDM processes.
- Political and Institutional Barriers: Resistance to change and lack of political will can impede EIDM adoption.
- Cultural and Contextual Differences: Diverse cultural contexts require tailored EIDM approaches.
How are you working to inspire and empower other young people to get involved with EIDM?
To inspire and empower young people to get involved with EIDM, I am:
- Providing Training and Workshops: Organising educational sessions to build data analysis and policy evaluation skills.
- Promoting Awareness: Using social media and other platforms to highlight the importance of EIDM.
- Creating Networking Opportunities: Facilitating connections between young professionals and experienced mentors in the field.
- Showcasing Success Stories: Sharing case studies where EIDM has led to significant positive outcomes.
Imagine the future of EIDM in Africa. How do you see EIDM evolving and creating a more positive impact?
In the future, EIDM in Africa will likely:
- Leverage Technology: Utilise data analytics and AI advancements to enhance decision-making processes.
- Increase Collaboration: Foster partnerships between governments, academia, and the private sector.
- Build Local Capacity: Invest in education and training programs to develop local expertise.
- Improve Data Infrastructure: Establish robust data collection and management systems.
- Achieve Greater Policy Integration: EIDM will become fundamental to policy development, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.
Sharing Your Passion (Quote):
Is there a powerful quote or statement you can share that captures your passion for EIDM and its importance?
"Evidence-informed decision-making is not just a tool; it's a catalyst for sustainable change and progress. When we base our choices on solid evidence, we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all."
Perhaps you have a story or anecdote that exemplifies how EIDM is making a difference.
"In a recent project in Nigeria, we used evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) to address gender disparities in financial inclusion. Data revealed that women were significantly less likely to have access to formal banking services than men. By implementing targeted financial literacy programs and creating women-focused banking products, we saw a substantial increase in women opening bank accounts and accessing credit within a year. This initiative empowered women economically and highlighted the transformative power of EIDM in promoting gender equity and financial inclusion."
About the author: Dr Oluyemi Theophilus Adeosun is a Research Fellow at Lagos Business School, Pan Atlantic University, Lagos State, Nigeria. He is known for his strategic leadership, applying a holistic approach to implement HR strategies that enhance organisational performance and fortify business systems. He has a robust staff training, development, and supervision background and is adept at leading and motivating high-performing teams towards achieving common goals and a shared vision.
He is a distinguished Human Resource Executive with an impressive career spanning over 19 years across various high-profile industries. These include Power/Energy, Oil & Gas, Telecommunications, Technology, Courier, E-commerce, Broadcasting, Real Estate, Advertising, Academia, Consulting, Membership-Based Organisation, and Volunteer work. He brings a diverse skill set in organisational strategy development, business partnership, change management, employee relationship management, and expert HR roles.
As a visionary thought leader, Oluyemi excels in managing transformational HR projects, revamping organisational culture, and establishing functional human resources departments. He demonstrates a profound understanding of both local and international employment laws. His strong business acumen, excellent assessment skills, and sound judgment enable him to address complex organisational issues effectively. He embraces challenges with a unique blend of creativity and practicality.
Oluyemi is a valued, trusted, and respected business partner recognised for his exceptional work ethic, integrity, and high professional standards. He is a competent ISO Auditor, well-versed with ISO 9001 -2008 Standards. He possesses a comprehensive understanding of International Labor Organisation (ILO) Conventions and guidelines and is skilled in managing co-funded staff within multinational organisations. In terms of his specialities, he has considerable expertise in Economic policy research and analysis, Project Design and Management, Business process improvement, Business systems documentation, Institutional/Organisational Development, and Capacity building. You can contact him at oluyemiadeosun@gmail.com. He is also reachable on the following social media platforms: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Acknowledgements: The author(s) is solely responsible for the content of this article, including all errors or omissions; acknowledgements do not imply endorsement of the content. The author is grateful to Charity Chisoro for her guidance in preparing and finalising this article, as well as her editorial support.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in published blog posts, as well as any errors or omissions, are the sole responsibility of the author/s and do not represent the views of the Africa Evidence Network, its secretariat, advisory or reference groups, or its funders; nor does it imply endorsement by the afore-mentioned parties.
Suggested citation: Adeosun, O.T. (2024) Evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) Catalyst for Sustainable Progress. Blog posting on 31 July 2024. Available at: https://www.africaevidencenetwork.org/en/learning-space/article/335/
