The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) celebrated its Summer 2024 graduation on Wednesday 24 July, recognising the achievements of 36 students who completed their Master’s or PhD programmes. This significant milestone reflects their dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence. Sincere congratulations are extended to all the graduates, acknowledging their hard work and commitment.
Our development studies students hail from diverse corners of the globe, bringing a wealth of perspectives that enhance the IDS learning environment.
Among the Class of 2024 is Sung Jun Jang (pictured left with his parents), who completed an MA in Development Studies and is now a Programme Officer at UNITAR Cifal Jeju. Reflecting on his experience, he noted, “The most rewarding aspect of IDS was meeting multicultural individuals working in the development field. I’ve gained invaluable insights into different cultures and forged lifelong connections.” Regarding his future plans, he shared, “I am currently developing programmes targeting the Asia-Pacific region with The United Nations Institute for Training and Research in South Korea and intend to continue my work there.”
Among the other graduates is Chelsea Mungal (pictured left) from Trinidad and Tobago, who focused her dissertation on the protection of migrants within her home country. Despite the niche nature of her topic, she noted that the process went smoothly thanks to the support and guidance of her supervisors. Reflecting on her time at IDS, she shared, “I will take back with me the memories I made inside the classroom with other students from diverse backgrounds. Coming from a small island in the Caribbean, it was most exciting to learn about the festivals, culture, and lifestyle of people from around the world.”
Also graduating this year is Abiola Adebayo (pictured left with her family), who completed an MSc in Climate Change Development and Policy while balancing the demands of being a mother to two children. She reflects on the valuable seminars and mentorship she received at IDS, stating, “I had the opportunity to attend seminars and mentorship programmes that enhanced my thought process. I remain in contact with the mentors and mentees, relationships I will always cherish.” She also shares her experience of writing her dissertation which was on Assessing Solar Technology Adoption and Diffusion Factors: A Case Study of Customer Behaviour in Nigeria. She states, “Balancing family responsibilities and writing a dissertation was challenging, but my professors provided essential support and guidance throughout.” Abiola plans to continue her academic journey by pursuing a PhD programme at IDS, maintaining her connection with the institute.
IDS extends its congratulations to all the graduates of the Summer 2024 cohort and acknowledges their significant achievements. As these individuals embark on their professional journeys, their diverse experiences and insights will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of the development field. The most recent cohort of graduates will join a distinguished network of alumni who are making significant contributions to their communities worldwide. The institute looks forward to following their continued success and impact in their respective areas of expertise.
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