Rubbing Shoulders with Africa’s Leaders

Mabel Alamu
International Development
MA ’20
Home Country: Nigeria

Mabel was drawn to Johns Hopkins SAIS for its economics and international development curriculum. The school was recommended to her by one of her undergraduate professors who encouraged her to apply. While researching graduate programs focused on international relations, Mabel found Johns Hopkins SAIS’ IDEV program to be one of the strongest in the US. Ultimately, she applied to the program because of its reputation and the IDEV practicum, which gives students the opportunity to work with clients on development projects in developing countries.

Mabel has had a long-standing interest in improving access and quality of education and gender equality in Africa. As a student, she has expanded her knowledge on monitoring and evaluation after taking the course, Principles of Evaluation. With her degree, she hopes to evaluate programs and interventions that target education and gender equality in Africa.

Outside the classroom, Mabel has had the valuable opportunity to meet with leading public sector officials in Africa such as Mali’s foreign minister, Nigerian presidential candidates, and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s opposition presidential candidate. 

Mabel has also served as vice president of the Africa Association – a club that connects students of African descent and those interested in African affairs. Through the association, she has been able to engage students with leading African policymakers and business leaders. 

After graduating, Mabel would like to work in the monitoring and evaluation field with a focus on improving education and gender inequality.