Supporting staff through higher education

Nawrin Nujhat, a Senior Manager of Learning and Leadership Development, BRAC, pictured at the University of Geneva with her peers. Nujhat completed her Master’s of Advanced Studies in Humanitarian Programme from the University of Geneva.

Few weeks prior to the Rohingya crisis in 2017, I was in conversation with Asif bhai, the current Executive Director of BRAC Bangladesh, when he asked me: “Who do you want to be in your professional and personal life?” I did not have an answer at that moment.

Heavy introspection followed the next few days, until a moment of realisation hit: I am a humanitarian. At that time I had been working at BRAC for five years.

I started looking for masters programmes in humanitarian action. Starting with my immediate supervisor, programme director, to human resources, everyone ensured I had the necessary support to pursue this degree.

I was nominated for the BRAC Higher Degree Scholarship. I signed an agreement whereupon I was required to return and work at BRAC for a specified amount of time. Along with the financial support from the scholarship, knowing that I have a fulfilling job awaiting me upon return, allowed me to intently focus on my academic experience.

I started my Master of Advanced Studies in Humanitarian Programme at the University of Geneva in April 2019. Interacting with the leading global humanitarian agencies gave me an immersive learning experience and unique perspectives on each organisation’s principles, strategies and modus operandi.

With my knowledge of humanitarian action, experience from the organisation and passion for making a positive impact in our world, I am now able to shape the future of BRAC’s leadership, as a core member of the Leadership Development Programme of the

organisation. I am able to design leadership journeys based on humanitarian principles and employ learning techniques that enable every BRAC staff to realise their potential.

BRAC encourages professional growth of its staff by nominating a selected number of employees to undergo training or pursue higher education abroad. These training programmes and study opportunities help our staff to expand their horizons and develop a more skilled workforce. Staff are also eligible for tuition fee subsidies and waivers if they or their children want to pursue higher studies from BRAC University. BRAC believes in the power of education, and this policy empowers BRAC staff to realise their academic aspirations.