Nairobi, Feb. 2 -- Finland is known for its world-class technological innovations, effective education system and probably, for many, being ranked the happiest country in the world year after year.

This has not always been the case. More than 100 years ago, Finland gained its independence from the Russian empire.

We were one of the poorest countries in Europe, went through a bloody civil war right after independence and were drawn into two wars with the Soviet Union during the Second World War.

What made Finland's development possible then?

There are at least two different factors that can account for the Finnish success story. One is the strong focus on the education system.

Finland - much like Kenya - has no major natural resources...