Standing Up For What You Believe in: A True Story

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For today’s article we have recent MIDPA alumni Javier discussing the process of finding one’s place upon graduating from university. Tossing up between staying in Australia and returning home, as well as being faced with an enormously difficult ethical dilemma, this is an enormously engrossing piece to read. We hope you enjoy it. As I promised to former MIDPA president Clemency Sherwood-Roberts and current president Aakansha Kedia, I am going to write about ethics and … Read more…

I Came, I Saw, I Learned: My Journey into the South Pacific

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For this article we are privileged to hear from MIDP’s Rowena (Weng) Veloso, who provides a wonderfully informative and reflective piece about the experience of her recent Monash internship in Fiji. ‘Bula, na yacaqu o Weng’ (Hello, my name is Weng). This was my usual introduction in the communities I visited during my month-long internship in Fiji. Perhaps it was my funny accent in the Fijian tongue, but I found it amusing that most of … Read more…

Renewable Energy: a mess or a hope?

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Joining us on the blog today is our colleague Eva Medianti, who writes informatively on the current state of renewable energy, the importance of switching from fossil fuels, and what is required in order for this change to occur. Facts of energy usage The world’s energy consumption has increased significantly, aligning with the growth in human population and development. 5 billion people on our planet enjoy energy to support their activities, but more than 1 … Read more…

Why MIDP? – The Journey

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Joining us on the blog today is the newest member of the MIDPA committee, Presley Kajirwa. Presley shares with us the fascinating story of why he decided to study MIDP at Monash, and what he has gained from the experience so far. Introduction: Habari nyote! (Greetings to all!) I am Presley Kajirwa, a young soul embracing his 20-something years miles away from my home country. I was born in Western Kenya. To reach my home … Read more…

From Army Green to Blue Jeans

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Joining us on the blog today is the MIDPA’s very own Wonder Woman, Francel Taborlupa. Francel has over twenty years of experience in the Philippines’ Armed Forces and is a passionate advocate of peacebuilding and gender equality. Today she shares her inspiring story and what made her switch from active service to academia. Back in my training days at the Philippine Military Academy, I used to chant: “Momma, momma can’t you see, what the corps … Read more…

72nd UNGA General Debates Summary

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On this occasion, the MIDPA is proud to announce the coverage of the recent developments that transpired throughout the 72nd United Nations General Assembly General Debates. In the following segment, you will find key summaries of the debates (and controversies) that occurred each day. This year’s theme was ‘Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet’. Day One – US President, Donald Trump, provided a controversial inaugural … Read more…

Mumbai to Melbourne: A Story in Three Acts

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Joining us today on the blog is MIDPA’s very own Vice-President, Aakansha Kedia. Aakansha takes a very unique and creative approach to explain her journey and the steps that led her to pursue a Master in International Development Practice at Monash University. Join her while she delights us with a voice over of her story in three acts. ACT 1 FADE IN EXT. MUMBAI, INDIA *AAKANSHA (Voice Over)* Emilie Wapnick once used a term that … Read more…

Development and Climate Change: The Case of Papua New Guinea

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Joining us on the blog today is fellow MIDP student, Omega Nelson. Omega reflects on the complex relationship between development and climate change, and what inspired him to pursue a Master’s in International Development Practice at Monash. A bit about myself… My name is Omega Nelson, I am an international student from Papua New Guinea. I am from East Sepik province in the northern part of PNG, but I live and work in the capital … Read more…

A Reflection on the State of Education in Rural Cambodia Today

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Joining us on the blog today is our guest contributor, Emily Maiorino. Emily has been volunteering at Oaktree for 12 months as a partnership manager. She has been working on the Girls’ Education Initiative (GEI) which is an education program targeting vulnerable and marginalised youth in rural Cambodia. Her role has been providing program support to their implementing partner organisation in Cambodia. She is also currently studying a Master’s of International Development at RMIT, due … Read more…

MIDPA listed as a Top 50 Gender Equality Blog

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MIDPA’s past and present Editors, Clemency Amanda Feli and Kathy, have an exciting announcement to share with our community. A year ago we started the MIDPA Blog with the vision of providing a non-bias space where students and like-minded individuals in the development and humanitarian sectors could grow ideas, express frustrations and share their light-bulb moments outside of the academic environment. During this time we have also heard from you, our audience of peers, contributors … Read more…