Ramazan, International Development and Globalization,
World University Service of Canada (WUSC),
Malawi,
Farm Radio International (FRI)
The knowledge gained in school is the best remedy for curing ignorance, but what truly matters for success in life and for driving community change is the application of that knowledge. This is why the University of Ottawa does everything possible to ensure that students can effectively put their learning into practice.
Despite the challenges the world is facing, the University of Ottawa, being more innovative, has answered the question that many students—including myself—had about entering an international internship, a crucial stepping stone toward gaining professional experience after studies.
In September 2021, WUSC introduced me to Farm Radio International (FRI) for a position as a Communications Officer at their office in Ghana. FRI is an international organization that provides local farmers with essential agricultural knowledge and market insights to help them improve their economic development through better crop yields. These educational and awareness services are delivered through capacity-building training, discussion forums, and, most notably, radio programs aired by FRI’s community radio partners.
The communications team works hard to promote the activities of local farmers and highlight the valuable services FRI provides in rural communities worldwide. My participation in the communications team has given me new experience in preparing and presenting monthly reports in PowerPoint format. Exploring their website and engaging with their social media platforms has further enhanced my professional communication skills.
Even though this internship is remote, it has been a key that opens doors in terms of experience. I have daily contact with my supervisor in Malawi, and it feels as though I have been in Ghana since the beginning of my internship. I have been learning about Ghana’s national and local languages, its geography, and its political system as it relates to economic development.
Finally, I want to highlight how much I appreciated WUSC’s training on the role of women in economic development and gender equality. I was amazed to read and see how women in Ghana are transforming their economic realities. I hope to apply this knowledge and experience in my professional journey.