Purity Osumba, Degree of Master,Kenya, graduated in 2014

China has made a record of becoming the fastest developing country in the recent years. Given that I am from a developing country where poverty is rampant, I found studying in China a privilege from which I could learn a few tricks that will help me make a difference in my country and so I decided to study in China as soon as I had the opportunity to.

In this program,I had the opportunity to meet and interact with various professors who were all so willing to help in whichever way they could. Hard work and obedience was key in my study. The college professors were very approachable that created a friendly relationship with students. I also I learnt humility from all students in the program who were all so kind to offer help.

Also, I learnt hard work, sacrifice, obedience, proper planning, and efficiency in provision of social amenities. The Government of China has worked so hard to ensure necessary amenities such as transport, electricity, housing are all so affordable and accessible. I particularly admired the transport sector. I think it’s admirable and should be copied in all developing countries.  The Chinese people are also very hard working and always willing to help.

Before I came to China I worked as a Field Officer in a local NGO in Kenya called Youth Foundation of Kenya. My main duties involved youth empowerment and promotion of the youth voice. My first degree was in Sociology and Economics from Kenyatta University in Kenya.

In China I had the opportunity to study Masters in Rural Development and Management studies from which my Thesis was on the input of Microfinance on Rural Youth Self Employment. My studies in China equipped me with skills such as data collection and analysis that enabled me to acquire a better job as a County Coordinator in an International NGO (Cooperative League of the USA) meaning more responsibilities and better salary. From my studies I have had the chance to share my knowledge and empower the community particularly youth who are my main interest. Youth unemployment still remains our main challenge but I have had the chance to create linkage and partnerships with other like minded organizations who are able to give loans at affordable interest rates enabling youth to start up or boost their businesses.

Currently,I serve as a County Coordinator in an International NGO (Cooperative League of USA). My main responsibilities are as follows:

　　·I serve at Senior Management Team as a County Coordinator aiming at strategically making decisions, work planning and implementation of program activities,

• Facilitate formation of new Youth Groups (Youth Bunges) in Embakasi West and Central Constituencies in Kenya Nairobi County.
• Implement trainings and orientation of 20 board members on basic program methodologies.
• Coordinate with other partners and develop a collaborative relationship in the empowerment of youth in Nairobi County.
• Develop partnerships and linkages to support youth networks i.e. with relevant central government and county level structures.
• Document monthly project reports, policy briefs and success stories and
• Design monthly work plan of project activities and budgeting of US$7000 and above each month out of a budget of US$24 million per annum.

My studies in China has been greatly appreciated as I acquired knowledge and skills to serve better in this position. I sharpened my skills on data collection and analysis which is a core skill in my ability to perform my duties sufficiently.

I am grateful for the opportunity to study my Masters study in China. I was able to acquire knowledge and skills that have empowered me in many dimensions.