About
Climate Finance, Climate Change Adaptation Consultant, Climate Change Lead Researcher ,Summary
Dr. Michael Otoara Ha'apio is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in climate finance and corporate finance, specializing in concept note development, development finance, capacity building, Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) consultancy services, and community development.
Professional Experience:
• Commonwealth National Climate Finance Advisor for Solomon Islands (2021–Present): Dr. Ha'apio serves as the National Climate Finance Advisor, focusing on enhancing the country's capacity to access and manage climate finance.
• TNA Adaptation Consultant: He has contributed to TNA adaptation projects for the Republic of Nauru (2019–2020) providing expert guidance on climate adaptation strategies.
• University Fellow and Lecturer: Dr. Ha'apio was a fellow at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Suva, Fiji, where he taught Climate Finance and Adaptation Project Design. He also played a pivotal role in developing the first Master's program in Natural Resource Management at the Solomon Islands National University.
• Blue Nature Alliance Project Focal Point: He currently serves as the focal point for the Blue Nature Alliance Project in Solomon Islands, assisting international consultants in designing and developing sustainable financing solutions for marine conservation.
• Founding Board Member: Dr. Ha'apio is a founding board member of the Coral Triangle Conservation Trust Fund, an entity established under the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) based in Indonesia, dedicated to marine conservation efforts.
• Founding Board member: Tookina Research Institute, Panatina Valley, Honiara, Solomon Islands
• Lecturer in Business Management: He teaches the Professional Diploma in Business Management at the University of the South Pacific's Solomon Islands Campus, sharing his expertise in corporate finance and management.
Academic Achievements:
• Dr. Ha'apio received the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Best Student Research at USP in both 2015 and 2019, recognizing his outstanding contributions to academic research.
Through his extensive experience and dedication, Dr. Ha'apio has significantly advanced climate finance initiatives, capacity building, and community development in the Pacific region.