The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) proudly celebrates the graduation of its 2025 cohort, marking a momentous achievement for each of the students who have completed their Master’s or PhDs.
These graduates, coming from all over the world, have shown immense dedication to their studies, facing challenges head-on while contributing to the diverse and dynamic learning environment at IDS. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to them as they take the next step in their careers.
Among the standout graduates of this year is Sabastian Rodriguez Vargas from Costa Rica, who completed his MSc in Climate Change, Development, and Policy. His dissertation, Boutique Carbon Credits in Central America, focused on niche carbon credit projects in the region. He faced challenges in selecting the right methodology, eventually adopting a mixed methods approach with his tutor’s guidance. “It was a challenging process, but it was worth it — I was happy to win the best dissertation award in the Climate cohort,” he said. Sabastian highlighted the value of IDS’s diverse student body, which influenced both his research and perspective. He now works remotely from Costa Rica as a Climate Journalist for Climate Home, UK.
Another inspiring student Mariel Miranda, a graduate of the MA in Power, Participation, and Social Change, used her time at IDS to focus on fostering intergenerational coalitions for social change in Mexico’s environmental agenda. Through her Critical Enquiry into Practice (CEP), she worked with environmentalists to advocate for Water, Biodiversity, and Climate as national priorities. Mariel continued her efforts beyond graduation, pushing to add sustainability to the National Development Plan for 2025–2031.
“Through media strategies and activating our networks, we managed to get the head of the Environmental Ministry, to agree to include sustainability in the new democratic planning and collaborate on designing a Cabinet to integrate it across ministries,” she shared. Now working with the Mexican Chapter of Transparency International, Mariel focuses on anti-corruption initiatives and environmental issues. She applies the skills and perspectives she gained at IDS to drive meaningful change in her work.
Simin Ibnat Dharitree from Bangladesh, a graduate of the MA in Gender and Development, focused her dissertation on unpaid care work in Gaza. While writing, she faced significant challenges due to political unrest in Bangladesh, including losing contact with her family during an internet blackout. “During that time, my course convenors showed me compassion and support. They became my best friends and helped me navigate an incredibly difficult period,” she shared. Simin is now working as a Communications Consultant at BRAC Bangladesh, where she continues to build on the skills and resilience she developed at IDS. Read her latest blog post, where she reflects on her experiences and the incredible support she received from her peers and professors.
As this year’s graduates move forward into their careers, IDS is proud to see them equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields. Whether advocating for sustainable development or pushing for social change, their work promises to shape future conversations and actions on global challenges. We look forward to watching them grow as leaders and changemakers, knowing that their journey with IDS is just the beginning. The Institute remains committed to supporting its alumni as they continue to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.
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