From Salford student to UN Diplomat, Prashant fulfilled his dream of studying Environmental Assessment and Management

"I had always dreamt of understanding environmental sustainability and gaining knowledge and skills in the subject. I chose to study in the UK because it has an extensive number of globally reputed universities. I also witnessed a lot of international students who advocated for global citizens coming together as one family in the UK so this made me think I would be very welcomed.

The University of Salford was one of the few universities offering an interdisciplinary course in Environmental Management. Since I had a background in Electronics Engineering, I wasn’t a fit for a master's program in Environmental Studies at a lot of universities as they typically required a bachelor's degree in the subject. My dream saw the light of day when I discovered the interdisciplinary master's programme in Environmental Assessment and Management offered by the University of Salford. This program allowed candidates from diverse educational backgrounds to apply, making it the perfect opportunity for me. Moreover, the university had a strong reputation in environmental studies, with a fieldwork-based approach that seamlessly blended theoretical knowledge and practical experiences.  

Another reason for selecting the University of Salford over others was its proximity to Manchester's central hub which offered a dynamic international and global atmosphere. Also, the supportive tutors and academic staff were key factors that attracted me."

"The university is greatly supportive and helpful to the students. The financial support and scholarships for international students were particularly helpful in funding my studies. I also greatly appreciated the wellbeing and accommodation support I received throughout my course. The 24-hour library facility was a great place for studying in a peaceful and focused environment. Additionally, the University provides excellent career support, including CV writing help and practice interview simulations. 

After completing the course, I also used the alumni services to access the University Library. I am also highly grateful for the wonderful professors, lecturers, and staff who have helped me through the course."

"I developed a lot of application-based skills during my degree, predominantly in environmental studies, which have greatly benefited me in my current role. These include thorough research, risk management, sustainability practices, waste management, air quality analysis, and other key environmental competency skill sets. I also learned cross-cultural skills which have been invaluable, enabling me to navigate diverse perspectives and work effectively in global and multidisciplinary teams.

My favourite part of the course was the field trip to Bootle Docks in Liverpool, where we studied air quality, waste management, sustainability, and other key aspects of environmental sustainability. It was a unique opportunity to learn directly from the Docks staff and experts, gaining firsthand insights into real-world environmental challenges and solutions."

"My favourite and most cherished aspect of my time at Salford were the Student Union Clubs and societies. The dedicated International Society organised trips across the UK. These excursions enriched my experience with UK history, culture, and sightseeing. I love travelling and have great memories of the day trips and a two-day trip organised by the International Society. These included visits to Alton Tower, Anglesey, Bodnant Gardens and Penrhyn Castle, Chatsworth House and Bakewell Village, Edinburgh, Ffestiniog Railway and Portmeirion Village, Hadrian’s Wall, Liverpool, Oxford, Poole’s Cavern and Hardwick Hall, Robin Hood Bay and Scarborough, Snowdon Railway, Swallow Falls, Stratford-upon-Avon, Tatton Park and York.

Other interesting memories include spending time at the University of Salford sports centre gym, experiencing beautiful snowfall on campus, and creating lasting memories with friends. I also enjoyed the beautiful museums, cultural and heritage sites that surround the University campus." 

"After Salford, I joined the United Nations (UN) as a diplomat gaining extensive experience in sustainable development and global diplomacy, at the UN Headquarters in New York City from 2015 to 2021. 

As an adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Palau to the UN, I played a pivotal role in promoting the national interests of Palau and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in SDG affairs at the UN from 2018 to 2021. During this time, I represented Palau at major UN forums, including plenary and committee meetings of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) and the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). I was also part of the delegation at significant events such as the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, the UN SDG Summit, the UN Climate Action Summit, and bilateral meetings with heads of state and government, and senior UN officials.

Before my work with Palau, I held key roles at the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Liaison Office, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu to the UN, and the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in New York. In these positions, I contributed to high-level UN negotiations, events, and conferences, including the UN Sustainable Development Summit in 2015, which adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. My expertise in SDG-related policy and diplomatic relations significantly shaped global sustainability initiatives, and UNITAR highlighted my story in its annual results report.

Since 2021, I have focused on building partnerships for sustainable development in India, further aligning my efforts with global sustainability goals in collaboration with governments, policymakers, experts, media actors, and members of the public. I have also participated in G20 summits and conferences as a delegate under India’s G20 presidency."