The University of Gothenburg boasts of diversity
Kofi Yeboah from Ghana is a student at the Master’s Programme in International Administration and Global Governance (IAGG). In the future, he is hoping to serve in the Foreign Service of Ghana.
Hello Kofi, can you tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Kofi Yeboah from Ghana studying for a master's in International Administration and Global Governance. I am a budding diplomat who is passionate about international affairs and global governance. I believe global thematic issues can be addressed collectively by states and a good international environment can aid and expedite this course.
What made you interested in the programme?
After spending a year at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, my interest in international relations peaked. First-hand experience in diplomacy, international forums, and political dialogues stirred my interest to acquire more knowledge in global governance and its operations and implications in the international system, and national and domestic environments.
In my search for a suitable programme, I discovered a lot of universities were offering international relations. IAGG is unique due to it its multi-disciplinary approach. The topics and structure of the programme promise a graduate the knowledge and experience to execute policy-related activities and nurture individuals for careers in international administration.
Are you satisfied with your education so far? Is there any part you find more interesting than the others?
So far, the programme has been great! It allowed me to work with the Permanent Mission of Ghana to the United Nations in Vienna. This experience groomed me professionally and opened me up to the diverse opportunities at the United Nations Offices in Vienna. The experience has been invaluable as the skills acquired and network created will have long-term benefits.
I love the experience (internship) as it provided an avenue to experience the theories in realistic environments.
Can you describe a normal study week, what do you do?
A study week involves a lot of reading relevant course materials. Lectures range from 2-4 times weekly. I usually read the materials at night or a day before class. This practice costs me when lectures are scheduled early in the day. I occasionally spend some time with a few mates when we “fikar” (Swedish for drinking coffee) and share thoughts on the lecture.
What is it like being an international student in Sweden?
As an international student in Gothenburg, I believe it feels just like any other student except for the language. Fortunately, quite a lot of people speak English which makes integration easy. The university is inclusive and the international student community is growing and progressively diversifying.
What is your opinion of the University of Gothenburg and the city of Gothenburg?
The University of Gothenburg is one of the best universities in the world. It has world-class educational standards, state-of-the-art faculties, and facilities that help students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for progress in modern societies.
It has a decentralized structure that facilitates smooth supervision and administration. The professors and administrators are supportive and bound to assist in the shortest possible time. The course administrators are committed to addressing student issues. The university boasts of diversity as most students are from all over the world.
Also, IAGG promotes group studies and presentations that foster the sharing of ideas and teamwork.
Gothenburg city is beautiful with canals and a lot of trees giving it a touch of nature. The city has a good transportation network and beautiful architectural buildings rooted in history. In winter, it gets extremely cold but the snow makes everything nice with its colour.
What are your plans for the future?
Hopefully, I’ll be working with an international organization that has a focus on development cooperation. My experience with the United Nations Offices in Vienna has piqued this interest. In the long run, I hope the experiences and competencies accrued over the years will aid me to serve in the Foreign Service of Ghana.
Fact box
Name: Kofi Yeboah.
From: Ghana.
Student at: Master's Programme in International Administration and Global Governance (IAGG).
Former education: Political Studies from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana.
The best way to spend a day off: The city of Gothenburg is blessed with nature! The trees, lakes, ponds, and hills are intrinsic to the city’s architecture. Taking a stroll and having picnics with friends in parks is definitely the best way to spend a day off.
