Letter for a former DS master student

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From Master in Development Studies to Water and Sanitation engineer in Pakistan! Ola Hanserud graduated from the Master programme in Development Studies in the spring of 2007. Now he is working for the Norwegian Church Aid in Pakistan. Ola sent us a letter from Pakistan about his experience being a student at Noragric, and how his road has been developed from studies to work!

What I enjoyed the most with studying development at Noragric was for one the opportunity to look critically at how the world - both richer and poorer countries - are developing, and how this affects the environment. I found it fascinating to learn about how nature affects us and how we affect nature in so many ways, and maybe what

I have liked the most about the studies has been the ability of combining social sciences with natural sciences. This, to me, is a crucial link to make, as it enables a critical look on for example the use of technology in a specific context. I chose to specialize in water and sanitation, and had the flexibility in the study plan to take natural science and engineering courses related to this field at other departments at UMB. During the studies I was among others also actively involved in the student democracy at Noragric, and found this a very good experience that can be recommended to anybody.

My master's thesis focused on water and sanitation in a post disaster (2005 earthquake) setting in Pakistan, where I did my fieldwork in summer 2006. Shortly after graduation summer 2007 I was very lucky to get a job as a water and sanitation engineer in the Norwegian NGO called Norwegian Church Aid, forming part of their Emergency preparedness group of water and sanitation professionals.

My first assignment has been to help with restoration of water supply and sanitation in the same area where I did my fieldwork – the earthquake affected areas in the north of Pakistan – on a 6 month contract. It is a challenging job in many ways, it is very rewarding, and definitely a great learning experience! I have now the opportunity to see (and influence) aid and developmental work from within, and I enjoy turning water and sanitation theory into practice as I supervise these activities in the field.

I hope and believe that future graduates from Noragric will get the same opportunities as I have got, and I allow myself to wish you the best of luck if you are one of them!

Best wishes,
Ola

Updated: 06.05.08
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