NFP scholars find challenge at Wageningen University
24 Dec 2009
Two NFP Master scholars from the Himalaya region talk about their study experience at Wageningen University.
Nawang is from Nepal where she works as Environmental Programme Coordinator at Shree Shiddhi Binayak Brick Factory. Although she had a bit of a shock arrival in one of the coldest Dutch winters, she was warmly welcomed by university staff. Nawang appreciates the open atmosphere in which inquisitiveness is encouraged. She heard about the NFP programme from a friend who had done a refresher course through Nuffic.
Education level higher than expected
Nawang is impressed by the education level in the Netherlands, which is much higher than she expected it to be. The professors are helpful and they have a positive attitude towards their students. She thinks the education system, based on six weeks of study and one preparation week followed by an exam, is quite hectic for NFP students who are unfamiliar with it. But Nawang has made an effort to adapt and she is now enjoying it. Furthermore, she appreciates the use of group work which allows students to interact with other international students, exchange ideas and learn from each other.
Personal and intellectual development
Her experience in Wageningen has helped her develop her intellectual knowledge. In addition, it has given a boost to her personal development: Nawang is much more active and hard-working than ever. Also, she has learned not to be afraid to speak her mind and has become more analytical and interactive. This will help her transfer her skills to colleagues in Nepal: “There is a dire need of well-educated people and I am confident that I can make a difference”.
Orange link
One of Nawang’s fellow MA students is Tshering, who is from neighbouring Bhutan. Tshering is a programme officer at the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature. He opted for a study experience in Holland after a Dutch teacher suggested he apply for a scholarship at Wageningen University considering his interest in environmental sciences. In addition, working for a water institution, Holland seemed an obvious choice. And finally, his favourite colour is orange, which, incidentally, is the symbol of the King of Bhutan.
Lack of accommodation
Tshering is positive about Holland, but he is less impressed by the shortage of student accommodation and the high cost of living. He has the overall impression, though, that things are systematic and transparent in Holland. He particularly likes the openness of the Dutch education system and the vast collection of literature in the university library.
Sharing knowledge
Like Nawang, Tshering is certain that the knowledge he is acquiring in Wageningen will benefit his organization at home. He will be able to pass on his knowledge to fellow colleagues and he will have first hand experience of theoretical and practical concepts of daily environment-related problems. This will increase his organization’s chances of obtaining project funding. Finally, he will seek to entice his colleagues to follow his suit and further their knowledge about environmental sciences and water management.
