A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Development

This summer, I interned at the Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS), a non-profit think tank headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal. The institute uses research and policy advocacy to influence policymaking and achieve a holistic approach to sustainable development.  ​

At IIDS, I helped organize a two-day event for the International Food Policy Research Institute’s 2023 Global Food Policy Report Launch Discussion. I also helped conduct research and literature reviews on several projects, including studies on the drivers of food insecurity in rural Nepal and corruption in national infrastructure projects. My main project was a report on the Nepali diaspora: I helped collect data and analyze that information on their demographics, needs, and contributions to Nepal. I helped write parts of the report, and my name will be published in it! ​

I developed many communication, analytical, and organizational skills as I worked with others to arrange events and conduct development research. It was a great learning experience as I had never conducted professional research before, and I broadened my knowledge of the non-profit sector. I am very grateful for this opportunity as I want to enter the development field in the future, and I loved exploring a different country with new friends in the process. 

Internship funded by the Preston Public Interest Career Fund​.