Okenge Yuma Morisho New Adjunct Professor

The School of Public Administration is thrilled to welcome Mr. Okenge Yuma Morisho as an Adjunct Professor.  Okenge Yuma Morisho is an accomplished public service executive with extensive experience in both provincial and federal government roles in Canada. Currently serving as the Deputy Minister for Municipal Affairs in the British Columbia Public Service, Okenge has held various senior positions across several sectors, demonstrating his expertise in public policy, intergovernmental relations, economic development, and leadership.

Okenge’s career in the British Columbia Public Service began in 2015 when he was appointed Assistant Deputy Minister of Economic Development in the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training. In this role, he led strategic initiatives aimed at driving economic growth and enhancing tourism and the creative sector within the province. He later transitioned to the role of Associate Deputy Minister in the same ministry in March 2016, continuing his efforts to promote job creation and economic prosperity.

In 2017, Okenge was appointed Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Relations, overseeing collaboration and negotiations with the federal government, provinces and territories. His efforts in this role helped strengthen relationships between the province and its national and international partners. Following this, he served as the Deputy Minister for the Public Service Agency from 2019 to 2020, where he was responsible for human resource management across the provincial government. His leadership ensured the public service workforce was well-equipped to meet the needs of British Columbians.

In his current role as Deputy Minister of Municipal Affairs since November 2020, Okenge has focused on supporting local governments, advancing community planning, and ensuring that municipalities have the resources and tools necessary to thrive. His expertise in governance and administration continues to make a significant impact on British Columbia's public service landscape.

Prior to his work in British Columbia, Okenge spent over a decade in the Federal Public Service. He held numerous executive positions, including Director of Operations in the Privy Council Office, where he contributed to foreign and defense policy. He also served as Director General of Intergovernmental and Stakeholder Relations at Environment Canada, where he played a key role in coordinating environmental policies and engaging with diverse stakeholders. His early career at Environment Canada and Industry Canada between 1999 and 2007 saw him in various policy coordination roles, laying the foundation for his extensive expertise in public administration.

In addition to his public service work, Okenge is also an experienced lecturer, having delivered guest lectures at prestigious institutions such as the University of Victoria, the University of British Columbia, the University of Ottawa, and Queen's University. His lectures typically focus on public administration, policy, and international affairs, reflecting his deep knowledge and practical experience in these areas.

Okenge holds an MBA from the University of Ottawa, as well as a Bachelor of Law (LL.L.) from the same institution. He has also completed an Executive Certificate in Negotiation from the University of Notre Dame, further enhancing his leadership and negotiation skills.

Throughout his career, Okenge Yuma Morisho has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, leadership, and the development of sound public policies that benefit Canadian society.

His expertise and mentorship will be an invaluable resource for our School. Welcome to the SPA Okenge!