Please tell us about your career since leaving ODID

I have been working in the development sector since my graduation in 2018. I briefly worked as a Resource Mobilisation Coordinator with a not-for-profit organisation, National Development Foundation, in Jammu & Kashmir, India. I undertook research to analyse the implementation of a central government scheme for skilling and employment of youth.

From 2020 to June 2022, I was employed with the Government of Punjab as a consultant. Our team of Governance Fellows was hired through the State Advisory Council (headed by the Chief Minister) to catalyse development transformations and governance reforms in Punjab. Over the course of 2.5 years, I worked with senior bureaucrats, multilateral organisations, and NGOs on multiple development priorities such as youth empowerment, promotion of mass entrepreneurship, skill development, capacity building of public officials, and COVID-19 management. I assisted the state through varying roles such as research and analysis, policy formulation, program design and implementation, and stakeholder management.

And your current position?

I am currently working as a consultant with Global Health Strategies, an international consultancy. As a Senior Program Associate, I contribute to strategy development and advocacy for the tuberculosis elimination program with elected leaders, bureaucrats, and technical experts. I also assist the Project Lead with managing team resources, and implementation and monitoring of project deliverables.

Why did you choose ODID/your course?

When I was first introduced to the idea of development as a discourse during my undergrad, I was fascinated and wanted to undertake an in-depth study of the subject from a multi-disciplinary perspective. In addition to familiarising me with core debates in development theory and practice, the course at ODID also provided me with the opportunity to explore my research interests under the supervision of world-renowned faculty.

What did you particularly value about your course?

Above all, I value the MPhil course structure that trains a student to undertake original research. From research design and fieldwork to analysis and writing of the thesis, I was trained for a successful career as a researcher.

And what did you particularly value about ODID?

QEH was a home away from home for me. The international outlook of the department is reflected in not just the courses offered, but also the people that make up the department. The students, faculty, and staff that are the Oxford Department of International Development make QEH an inclusive and supportive environment to pursue the MPhil.