After working with fellow Cameroonian youth at PICHNET, David realized the powerful role that they can play not only in agriculture but also in the development sector at large.
“In activities where youth requested me to mentor, I’d say yes,” David recalls.
He continues to connect with PICHNET and its alumni through his project titled A Second Gondwana? Addressing Africa’s Growing Economic (D)rift, funded by the Polson Institute for Global Development. As David administers key geographical analyses and visualizations, the project critically examines the influence of uneven globalization on growing economic inequality in Africa.
When asked about future career aspirations, David wishes to join non-profits and work with youth, in order to examine how agriculture is a real contributor to development.
It was this desire that led him to join Cornell Global Development. As an incoming international student he faced adversity such as COVID and travel concerns, but he persevered and began to flourish in the department. David mentions that one of his favorite classes was Farmer-centered Research and Extension taught by Terry Tucker, professor of the practice in Global Development and director of the Global Development MPS program. He was extremely interested in learning about the problems farmers are exposed to, and diverse viewpoints regarding leading research approaches; it fascinated him that every context has a different strategy. This class steeped in case studies and active participation ignited his passion for agricultural development. This semester, David is involved in an agrifood systems enhancement class called Food, Agriculture, and Environment, which partners with the Chinese Agricultural University. He notes that the time difference is challenging but the learning outcomes are so rewarding.
David’s engagement with Cornell transcends beyond the classroom. Over the summer, he was a part of a project in Eswatini where he supervised an undergraduate team of sophomore civil engineers, furthering his desire to work with youth on both a team and community level. David observes that youth-centric projects and approaches are essential.
“Youth are most effective when they are building self-confidence and self-awareness, leading to the ability to define specific goals that serve at the forefront of development work,” David shares.
David also serves as an ambassador in the CALS Office of Professional Programs as he helps prospective students learn about Cornell’s Global Development MPS program. He also networks with professional programs and conducts workshops.
When asked to give advice to prospective students or current Global Development undergrads, David advises being connected with peers, professors, and the department by going to seminars and conferences. “It’s essential to show enthusiasm by going to the experts and showcasing your skills and dedication to participating in projects,” he says. “Find similar interests, share activities.” After all, youth are the future of development.
Sushmi Majumder ’25 is a communications assistant in the Department of Global Development with a double major in Development Sociology and Communication.
