We do not stick to the mainstream development discourse, we talk about alternatives to development, which is very motivating.
Sujan Singha from India
2018-2019-MA - Human Rights, Gender and Conflict Studies: Social Justice Perspectives
Name: Sujan Singha
Major: Human Rights, Gender and Conflict Studies: Social Justice Perspectives (SJP)
Background
BA and MA in Social Work from Visva-Bharati Central University, West-Bengal, India. After graduation in 2011, I worked with state governments and international organizations like UNICEF, Child Fund, STIR Education mostly on education and child protection projects.
Why study abroad?
Although I was involved in very challenging projects, my quest to understand the policy-making/implementation processes and explore development paradigms beyond local and national boundaries draw my attention towards international education.
Why ISS?
I believe education is a pertinent Civil Rights issue of our generation and access to quality education for all is Social Justice, to me. It is often not adequately mentioned in the mainstream socialistic discourse. Through the wide range of course options, I hope to find knowledge and skills to make high-quality education for children a non-negotiable item on the agenda if it comes to children’s rights and human rights. I believe the unique academic approach here will enable me to critically examine existing policies and look beyond traditional methods to contextualize and implement policies on the ground.
I received a scholarship from the World Bank that allowed me to study either at University College London or ISS. I choose ISS because of the critical discourse and the diversity of the student population. And in my programme most people have working experience, which helps to reflect on theories in the context of practice.
How is your experiences so far?
As I was out of academic life for quite some years, it took me a bit of time to get into that framework again. Here at ISS the academic life is exciting and challenging at the same time, it gives direction for thinking, develops alternative perspectives to see a phenomenon through different lenses. We do not stick to the mainstream development discourse, we talk about alternatives to development, which is very motivating.
Professors at ISS are linked to projects in developing countries. Hence, classroom discourse is always fuelled by practice; links to real-life make the teaching and learning more lively. The friendly nature of teaching and non-teaching staffs helps you to adjust to the academic environment. You can always send emails or step into their office. Everybody here is eager to help you grow.
What is your advice to students in India who would like to come to the Netherlands?
In many ways, this country is convenient to study and live. Being in the Netherlands and looking at processes in your own country makes me feel so connected. There is a lot to do outside the classroom: museums, conferences, festivals throughout the year will enrich your living experience. Cycling is very convenient and safe. Being part of an international community, knowing the Dutch culture brings a lifetime experience.
What are your future plans?
This programme will definitely help me to either find another job or do my job in a better, more effective way.