Students on the International Development Management (IDM) MSc course recently embarked on a study trip to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) headquarters and the United Nations (UN) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, on invitation of both organisations.
The trip gave the students unique opportunities to engage with senior managers and experienced field practitioners at the WTO and UN on a range of issues that are pertinent to their study and designed to reinforce crucial aspects of their learning.
During the visit to the WTO, students explored issues including technical assistance to WTO ascending member countries, the benefits and challenges of Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs), and current issues in gender gap management in international trade.
At the UN headquarters, the students had the opportunity to witness discussions on human rights concerns in Darfur delivered by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, and the Permanent Representative of Sudan, Hassan Hamid Hassan.
The course team explored opportunities to further deepen collaboration between Westminster and both organisations in the areas of research and enhancing students’ learning experiences during the visit, and the feedback reported from the participating students was overwhelmingly positive.
Speaking about the trip, Peter Idowu, one of the IMD MSc students on the trip, commented: “I am indeed very grateful to the University of Westminster for this trip and for creating an enriching educational experience for the students. It really contributed to the growth and development of my skills and knowledge.”
Ella Rayner, another IMD MSc student, added: “Our trip to Geneva was an invaluable experience that has framed my intentions regarding a future career and the potential opportunities that are open to me.”
Dr Erendira Leon Bravo, Lecturer in Economics and Deputy Course Leader for the IDM MSc course, said: “This trip was an extraordinary opportunity to nurture the knowledge of our MSc students at the University of Westminster. They flourished in their leadership skills through interaction with development leaders. A genuinely inspirational trip indeed.”
Dr Olasunkanmi Sholarin, Principal Lecturer in Quantitative and Financial Economics and Course Leader for the IDM MSc course, commented: “With this high-profile study trip, the University of Westminster offers a unique opportunity for students when it comes to reinforcing knowledge and nurturing skills by fostering close encounters between our learners and experienced field practitioners. This is particularly beneficial for our students' learning and their future careers.”
Find out more about Business and Management courses at the University of Westminster.
Related articles
