Driven by a strong interest in nutrition and its role in the prevention and management of disease, Rupinia Accrombessi chose to pursue graduate studies to deepen her expertise and develop the skills needed to improve public health in Benin. Her admission to the University of Ottawa through the Canadian International Development Scholarships Program (BCDI 2030) program marked an important milestone in her academic and professional journey and brought her one step closer to her goal of strengthening nutrition research and practice in her home country.
Through BCDI 2030, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by a consortium led by Colleges and Institutes Canada and Universities Canada, Rupinia has expanded her knowledge while building meaningful connections with students, researchers, and faculty from a wide range of cultural and academic backgrounds. Reflecting on this experience, she says, "I had the opportunity to meet people from many different backgrounds. Our conversations allowed me to discover new perspectives, exchange ideas, and better understand health challenges in different contexts." These international exchanges have broadened her perspective and equipped her with ideas she hopes to adapt to the realities and priorities of Benin.
“I had the opportunity to meet people from many different backgrounds. Our conversations allowed me to discover new perspectives, exchange ideas, and better understand health challenges in different contexts.”
Rupinia Accrombessi
— BCDI 2030 Scholar, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Rupinia also highlights the interactive teaching approach at the University of Ottawa as one of the most valuable aspects of her program. "The way we learn is very interactive. We participate a lot, exchange ideas with others, and in the end, we gain a tremendous amount of knowledge without feeling like we're in a traditional classroom setting." These collaborative learning experiences, along with opportunities to work with researchers and fellow students, have strengthened her critical thinking and given her a deeper, more nuanced approach to analyzing scientific research and literature—skills she believes will be essential as she contributes to strengthening nutrition education and evidence-based practice in Benin.
“The way we learn is very interactive. We participate a lot, exchange ideas with others, and in the end, we gain a tremendous amount of knowledge without feeling like we're in a traditional classroom setting.”
Rupinia Accrombessi
— BCDI 2030 Scholar, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Although her studies are still underway, Rupinia is already focused on putting her learning into action. She hopes to apply the knowledge and skills she is gaining at the University of Ottawa to advance nutrition education, research, and practice in Benin, while contributing to the growth of scientific knowledge within the African context. By sharing what she has learned and helping strengthen local capacity, she hopes to support lasting improvements in public health and inspire future generations of nutrition professionals.
Rupinia's journey reflects the mission of the BCDI 2030 program: to strengthen the academic and professional capacities of committed individuals so they can become agents of change in their communities. By investing in future leaders like Rupinia, the program contributes not only to the personal and professional development of its scholars, but also to the long-term strengthening of health systems and higher education institutions in Benin.
Through her journey, Rupinia demonstrates how international education can extend far beyond the classroom. By transforming learning into action through knowledge sharing, research, and international collaboration, she is building the skills needed to create lasting impact in Benin and contribute to a healthier future for her community.