Susan Komukama
MSc Conservation and Land Management - Uganda
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Susan Komukama was awarded the Professional Experience Scholarship aswell as a Darwin Initiative fellowship.
The Darwin Initiative is a UK government funded programme which supports a range of conservation projects in the UK and 100+ countries worldwide. In this project, Susan is both studying MSc Conservation and Land Management and conducting research into the conservation and economic restoration of Mondia whitei,聽 a valuable but endangered African indigenous plant species.聽 Susan previously worked in Uganda鈥檚 National Botanical Gardens at Entebbe.
What difference has obtaining an award made to you?
Obtaining this award has enhanced my career. Moreover, I am able to work with a diverse group of people in the field of conservation, who have positively influenced my intellectual capabilities.
How did your Darwin Initiative application stand out?
The application required a lead institute which has had projects with Darwin. Next was for me was to find a professor (Dr Julia Jones) who was interested in my conservation work and together we built a strong case in our application. This included my work being directly linked to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CPD) and other treaties and also by identifying a threatened species from my country to work with. I also achieved a tuition waiver because of my professional experience.
Your tips for a good scholarship application?
First things first make sure you have all that is required and that you meet the criteria. Make your motivation letter motivating for the selection committee by keeping it brief, precise and to the point.
How is life in Bangor so far?
I love all the modules because they trigger my mind to keep reading widely. I also hope to learn how to swim by the end of the course!