Financial Market Development Program
(Subprograms 1; 2; and 3)

While face to face communication would have been better in certain cases, adaptation to pandemic restrictions by adopting new ways of working in addition to being agile and flexible proved adequate and strong enough to successfully implement projects during the pandemic. The program was implemented during a very challenging period when the pandemic was just reaching its peak, the health situation was deteriorating globally, and lockdown measures were being intensified. Nonetheless, all stakeholders were able to pivot swiftly and embrace a fully virtual work environment—subprograms 2 and 3 were prepared, implemented, and completed virtually. Initial issues on bridging communication gaps and taming technology were ironed out relatively quickly and work progressed. Although further challenges arose in mobilizing international consultants, most were able to deliver quality outputs virtually with support from local stakeholders. Some activities, such as workshops and training events, had to be delayed and TA resources were repurposed to meet the changing situation. Agility, flexibility, and success in employing new ways of working enabled the program to be completed successfully. However, stakeholders highlighted that face to-face communication could have improved the process.