Joseph Kamfwa
My name is Joseph Kamfwa, an Irish Aid fellow in the Ireland-Africa Fellowship Programme. I have a BSc in Agricultural Economics from the University of Zambia. I have always been inspired by people who have gone on to achieve remarkable milestones in life for the good of humanity, especially those coming from a position of less privilege. For many, education has served as a pillar and a vehicle for the transformative learning required to bring about social change. The need to contribute to a better world was a huge influence in my decision to pursue an MA in International Development at Maynooth University. Prior to joining Maynooth University I had been working as a Senior Agriculture Officer for the Department of Agriculture, where I addressed social issues in agriculture through fostering resilient and productive livelihoods, vibrant rural communities, and equitable value distribution for a sustainable food system.
My experience pursuing the MA in International Development has been nothing short of spectacular and enlightening for me. I have been introduced to alternative approaches to development and examples of best practice. My understanding of development practice has expanded as a result of this experience, and I now recognize the intricate interdependencies that exist in our modern world in terms of the social, political, economic, cultural, and environmental elements that influence global development. Working with rural communities in agriculture for a long time exposed me to the reality of the complexities of contemporary challenges such as climate change, poverty, gender inequalities, food insecurity and humanitarian need, resulting in my growing interest in these issues and the need for appropriate responses to address them. The MA programme provides the right mix of theoretical and practical experience through engaging, participatory and impactful delivery of modules enabling reflective, critical and transformative thinking, essential in development practice and analysis of development trends. It also provides an opportunity to understand the basic drivers of inequality, sustainability and growth with development from both global and local context.
The support from the staff and lecturers from the Department of International Development is exceptional and makes the experience worthwhile. Everyone tries as much as possible to make it bearable to navigate through the pressures of academic life and generally Ireland is a lovely country with warm and friendly people. The country has a rich culture and Maynooth as a university town is very diverse and conducive for a balanced social and academic lifestyle. Studying the MA in International Development at Maynooth University is one thing I would recommend to anyone as it is a life changing experience that leaves an indelible mark.