MPA/ID student

Layusa Isa-Odidi

student imageAs a dual Nigerian-Canadian citizen, I have spent a considerable amount of time between the ‘developed’ and ‘developing’ worlds. From an early age, I was confronted with the reality of how much work was neglected in my own country and how useful I could be if I focused my efforts there. Growing up, I learned that this was the case in many places around the world, with little justification beyond history and circumstance. Ultimately, my interest in development stems from my belief that it is an opportunity that should be afforded to every human being.

Since enrolling in multivariable calculus (in preparation for MPA/ID), I have been amazed by the ways in which mathematics can be used to support economic and other policies. Many people can talk about international development and share their opinions on potential solutions, but only a subset can provide an analytical basis for their arguments. Eventually, I want to be a leader in the field; but first, I want to be trained in how best to develop and justify the positions I would be defending.

The joint MBA-MPA/ID is a great way for me to study a variety of topics that, together, will allow me to contribute to international development at the intersection of the private and public sectors.

Originally from Kano, Nigeria, Layusa worked as a management consultant focusing on global health and the implementation of country-wide strategies for HIV prevention before enrolling in the MPA/ID Program.

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