International Institute of Social Studies in The Hague
Part of Erasmus University Rotterdam

My name is Hilton Nyamukapa from Zimbabwe. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science Psychology Degree from University of Zimbabwe and also received various levels of training in Child Rights and Protection. I have worked with children in several environments including informal settlements, on the streets, and correctional institutions in Zimbabwe. Studying MA Development Studies at ISS is part of my career development endeavor.
As a Children and Youth Studies specialization student, I am exposed to a multifaceted exploration of children and youth issues in a comparative and global development perspective. Studying at ISS has taken my career to a higher level; the multinational learning environment has helped me develop a broader insight into efforts and practices directed towards promoting children’s survival and development. Focusing on Zimbabwe’s Orphans and Vulnerable Children, my research paper will look into the Cash Transfer System as a targeting strategy for children’s educational support.

My name is Narelle and I was born in Australia. Before joining the learning community at ISS, I worked on vocational training projects with young adults in Vietnam, Melbourne, Indonesia, and most recently Vanuatu. With an interest in education and social change, I am now undertaking a specialization in Children & Youth. I chose ISS because I believe that some of our most valuable learning moments arise in our interactions with other course participants. So, how can you beat a learning environment which brings together inquiring minds, with their different life perspectives, from all over the world?

My name is Severin Dery, I'm from Ghana. My educational background is Sociology and Psychology. I worked as a Research Assistant for the Navrongo Health Research Center, an International Non- Governmental Organization that specializes in demographic and health research. My impetus for coming to the ISS was two-fold; first because of its acclaimed status as the leading Institute for international development. I knew right away that it will create room for sharing diverse continental experiences. Secondly, I wanted to broaden my knowledge in development studies and further sharpen my research skills.
My experience thus far is awesome. What I find most intriguing is the teaching quality - intense and rigorous that incorporates lectures, seminars, workshops and field visits. There is also availability of reading material for course work that I never lacked. Furthermore, the student-lecturer relationship is very cordial in the sense that they are easy to approach and more than willing to guide, guard and advise you on your career path.
 

My name is Camilo Ardila, I’m from Bogotá, Colombia and I’m 25 years old. After I graduated from my BA in Economics, I worked some months in the National Planning Agency of Colombia and then I worked as a researcher for the UNDP Virtual School for Latin America and the Caribbean for almost two years.
I decided to come to ISS because I wanted an institution that combined a recognized academic trajectory with an environment that celebrates diversity. My research paper will seek to analyze the persistence of Rural Poverty in Colombia during the last decade.
My experience so far has been enriching in all aspects, I’ve had the opportunity to construct knowledge with brilliant professionals –both lecturers and students– and I’ve shared daily life with wonderful human beings from many countries.

My name is Lya Mainé Astonitas, alumna 2003/04, now Operations Analyst for the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in Lima, Peru.  

I especially enjoyed the possibility to chose between a wide variety of courses to complement my understanding of the different development theories and perspectives related to the world of work. Read more here