Kaihan Barakzai is a dedicated academic and development professional with extensive experience in public and private sectors, as well as international organizations. Currently pursuing his PhD at Istanbul University in Turkey, Kaihan’s research focuses on strategic frameworks for improving electoral systems, emphasizing transparency, sustainability, and the influence of external environmental factors. He also collaborated with Girona University in Spain for over a year as part of a research project, further broadening his knowledge and expertise. He holds a bachelor's degree in Commerce from the University of Pune in India and a master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Istanbul Aydın University in Turkey. During his MBA studies, he served as the International Student President, showcasing his leadership abilities and commitment to fostering community engagement.
Kaihan has an extensive professional background, having worked with the Afghan Government and the World Bank's Economic Development Project from 2011 to 2015. Alongside his public sector experience, he has contributed over a decade of service to private companies and international NGOs, gaining diverse expertise in economic and social development.
He is the founder of the Think Tank, which he established with his colleagues. Kaihan plays a pivotal role in leading the Think Tank’s mission to bring transformative change to Afghanistan and its people. His leadership, combined with his vision and innovative approach, positions him as a key figure in advancing impactful initiatives for his country.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Kaihan has built an impressive academic portfolio. He has authored numerous articles on economic and political issues, published in leading national and international newspapers. His insights are widely recognized, and he has represented Afghanistan at various international conferences across multiple countries, further elevating his profile as a thought leader.