Two Ghanaian scholars studying at KDI School under the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) scholarship are demonstrating that graduate education can extend far beyond the classroom.

Fareedah Al-Hassan (left) and Boamah Berlinda Akosua (right) during KOICA orientation.

Coming from different professional backgrounds but united by a shared passion for public service, Boamah Berlinda Akosua (MPP, 2025), from the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, and Fareedah Al-Hassan (MPP, 2025), specializing in gender equality, youth empowerment, and women in cross-border trade, chose KDI School for its globally recognized, evidence-based approach to public policy education.

For Berlinda, the decision to pursue graduate studies was driven by a growing realization that effective development requires more than good intentions. "As I became more interested in development and humanitarian work, I realized that addressing complex developmental and public issues required more than passion, but specialized knowledge, critical thinking and practical skills," she said. 

Fareedah also shared a similar motivation, emphasizing the need for more inclusive policy making. "Most policies created are not inclusive and transparent. All policies created now will affect the youth, so I think they should be inclusive and transparent so that we can hold policymakers accountable," she said.

Both scholars describe the KOICA scholarship as a transformative experience that has broadened their professional and personal horizons. Through interactions with classmates from around the world, field visits, and experiential learning opportunities, they have gained firsthand exposure to South Korea's development journey and practical approaches to public policy. 

"Academically, I have been challenged to think more critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and apply policy analysis to real-world issues. Personally, living in a different cultural environment has expanded my worldview, strengthened my adaptability, and deepened my appreciation for global cooperation. My way of thinking has really changed for the better," Fareedah explained.

Relocating to South Korea came with significant challenges, including adapting to a new language, culture, and pace of life. Yet, they say these experiences have strengthened their resilience and expanded their understanding of effective public systems. Berlinda particularly points to Korea's culture of efficiency and the "ppalli-ppalli" (빨리빨리) mindset as lessons they hope to carry into their future careers.

Outside the classroom, both scholars have become active champions of human rights at KDI School. Serving as a Human Rights Supporter last year, Berlinda reflected, "One of the highlights of my role was creating and sharing the monthly Human Rights News Card, which provided students with valuable insights on important human rights issues.

Fareedah, who leads the school’s Human Rights Forum, organized various activities such as roundtable discussions on cultural traditions and universal human rights protections. "Sustainable development and human rights are closely connected, and promoting human rights helps create more inclusive and equitable societies." she explained. The discussions examined issues including female genital mutilation and widowhood rights and generated such strong engagement and meaningful dialogue from the participants. 

Berlinda and Fareedah’s  commitment to global development also extended to their participation as online delegates at the World Bank Youth Summit 2026, where young leaders from around the world explored solutions to emerging development challenges such as workforce mobility in an AI-driven labor market, gender equality, and climate resilience. The summit reinforced lessons from their studies that effective public policy plays an important role in ensuring and capitalizing on technological advancements that benefit society rather than widening inequalities. 

Looking ahead, both scholars aspire to build careers in international development while maintaining strong ties to grassroots initiatives in Ghana. Berlinda hopes to contribute to development projects through organizations such as the United Nations while continuing her support for educational initiatives that serve children from low-income communities. She also hopes her story encourages more young Africans to pursue global opportunities: "With determination, continuous learning, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone, those opportunities can become a reality." 

Fareedah shares a similar vision of using public policy to create meaningful change. "My long-term goal is to contribute to public policy and international development, particularly in gender equality, youth empowerment, economic development, human rights and social inclusion," she said. "I hope my journey inspires young Africans to meaningfully contribute to global conversations and leadership. Investing in education, remaining curious, and staying committed to service can open doors to meaningful impact."

Berlinda and Fareedah’s journey demonstrates how international education can cultivate leaders who bridge local realities with global solutions. As they continue their studies at KDI School, both scholars are determined to translate knowledge into action, building the skills and global perspective needed to shape more inclusive policies, advance human rights, and drive sustainable development across Ghana, Africa, and beyond.