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Chifundo Mchowa
(Malawi – GLODEP cohort 2021-2023)

Written on . Posted in Alumni.

How did you use GLODEP to get where you are now? What is your current position?

Through GLODEP, I had an opportunity to know several organizations working in the development sector from the guest lectures and seminars that we had from the GLODEP non-academic associates. One such organization is the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) where I am currently working. I created a professional network from GLODEP that has been very vital in my professional growth by sharing opportunities as well as knowledge. I have been able to use the reputation and credibility of the three consortium universities to prove the credibility of my qualification to employers and be able to gain their trust over my skills and abilities. My current position is Researcher/PhD Scholar at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) in Bonn, Germany.

How did GLODEP help you to achieve your career goals?

I have always aspired to work in research to support evidence-based policy, a goal I am now achieving in my current role. GLODEP helped me to achieve this goal by equipping me with practical qualitative and quantitative research skills. During my GLODEP studies, I had the opportunity to undertake a research stay at the Laboratoire de Statistique Appliquée à l’Analyse et la Recherche en Économie (LASAARE) in Casablanca, Morocco, one of the GLODEP’s academic associates. This experience significantly enhanced my research capabilities and allowed me to gain practical experience in conducting research and formulating policy recommendations. The research stay at LASAARE also formed a good background and motivation for my current PhD research at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS).  

How do you use the experience from the GLODEP program?

The comprehensive approach of the GLODEP program has enhanced my ability to produce well-rounded and impactful research.  The multicultural experience from the GLODEP program has significantly broadened my perspective, enabling me to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. This skill has proven helpful in both my personal and professional life. The structure of the program, which involves changing countries every semester, has enhanced my adaptability, allowing me to integrate into new environments with so much ease. Beyond the academic knowledge, GLODEP also focuses on professional development. We received training on how to present ourselves to potential employers, a skill that has been extremely beneficial in my job search post-GLODEP.

What did you learn? Which knowledge, skills, and competencies did you acquired?

I learned that development is multidimensional and that creating effective policy recommendations requires considering and integrating various aspects of development policy. As an economist, it’s crucial not only to rely on economic theory but also to incorporate political and social dimensions into my research and policy advice. Through GLODEP, I gained knowledge and skills in political analysis and systematic review that I am finding very useful now as I am working on a research project that requires me to synthesize economic analysis and political economy analysis. I also learned how to organize my research in a reproducible manner, along with data cleaning skills and ensuring data quality. Additionally, I learned about research ethics, which is essential for conducting responsible and credible research.

How did you like it in Olomouc?

Living in Olomouc was a great experience. Olomouc is a quiet city, which made the environment conducive to focus on my studies as well as for relaxing.  Additionally, the cost of living in Olomouc is quite affordable compared to larger European cities, making it an attractive place for students. As someone who had never been to Europe before, the locals were friendly and welcoming, which made it easy for me to navigate through and integrate into the community despite the language barrier. Although the winters were very cold, I survived, all thanks to the good heating system at the dorms, classrooms and library! Nevertheless, I enjoyed the snowy winter and the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market. Moreover, I found Olomouc to be a very clean, safe and beautiful city, which added to the overall positive experience.