MU Institute of Cooperation and Development (MICD)

The Mid-West University Institute of Cooperation and Development (MICD), under the Mid-West University, Nepal, is a crucial center for advanced learning and international collaboration. Established to address modern issues related to progress and sustainability, the institute offers the Master of International Cooperation and Development, a two-year postgraduate program developed with assistance from the University of Pavia, Italy.

This interdisciplinary academic program seeks to create qualified individuals who can effectively contribute to global progress. MICD's core objective is to educate and prepare people to manage the complexities of international partnerships and bring about positive social transformation in various settings. The institute aims to cultivate capable individuals in the field of development work, which is essential for sustainable development.

Academics Programs

The primary academic offering at MICD is the Master of International Cooperation and Development. This graduate program, built with input from the University of Pavia, Italy, provides a thorough grounding in development theories and practices.

Students explore different aspects of progress through classes such as development economics, international studies, contemporary studies, and management studies.

The program runs over four semesters: the first three focus on classroom instruction, while the last is dedicated to internship opportunities and completing thesis writing.

The program is part of the Cooperation and Development Network (CDN), a UNESCO-accredited collection of postgraduate programs that provides students access to international perspectives and resources.

The curriculum is structured to be regionally relevant while maintaining a broad, global view. The program's outline aims to provide students with the knowledge required for leadership positions in various sectors. It's also designed to allow students to create new approaches to development rather than follow old ones.

Admissions Process

Admission to the MICD program requires applicants to hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university; there is no age limit. As classes are conducted in English, proficiency in the language is required along with basic computer skills.

The program seeks applicants who are passionate about working internationally and desire to contribute to advancing society. The admission process starts yearly with an announcement, which usually attracts 35 students. The focus is attracting students interested in the field who want to contribute to its various sectors.

Campus Life

Though part of Mid-West University, MICD officially located in Naya Bato, Dhobighat, Lalitpur, has a distinct atmosphere that encourages teamwork, international awareness, and conversation among students of different origins and viewpoints. 

The institute's links to other universities in the Cooperation and Development Network (CDN) structure give students access to international resources and connections. Students become part of a network with peers at Bethlehem University in Palestine, Kenyatta University in Kenya, and Universidad De San Buenaventura in Cartagena, Colombia, expanding their academic and social experiences.

This arrangement promotes individual growth and career opportunities through networking. For example, students can participate in joint projects with their counterparts from other continents, providing them with invaluable cross-cultural experience that can be very helpful in their future jobs. Students are encouraged to think globally and act locally.

Faculty and Teaching Methodology

MICD's instructors come from various backgrounds: experienced academics from Nepal, specialists in international development, and experts with years of experience in global cooperation. Their combined knowledge enhances the quality of teaching, offering a balance of academic theory and real-world understanding.

The teaching methods at MICD prioritize active student involvement and open conversation. The classroom environment encourages active participation, where students share ideas and knowledge. This strategy aims to develop students' communication skills and critical thinking. Students also work on case studies to see how to apply theory to practical work.

Campus Facilities

MICD uses Mid-West University's existing facilities. These include modern classrooms equipped with educational technology, a library with research resources, and internet access for students to connect with information and each other. 

The facilities are intended to provide a positive learning environment, providing all the tools required for research and studies. The program also offers classes outside of regular working hours to accommodate students who work full-time.

For instance, courses are delivered in the mornings, so students do not have to choose between work and education.

Student Life and Extracurricular Activities (ECA)

While the MICD program is academically challenging, it also provides many chances for students to get involved in projects related to development and other activities that further their understanding of the field.

The Cooperation and Development Network (CDN) connections, in particular, help students with cross-cultural learning and forming professional networks. Fieldwork, research initiatives, and engagement in community programs are all part of the program, which makes for practical involvement in the study of development. Students often participate in conferences and workshops to increase their learning about the sectors.

A student in the program shared, "Interacting with students from different countries has given me a better understanding of global problems. Thanks to the exposure that MICD has provided, I feel more prepared to handle real-world development problems."

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The available documents do not provide specifics regarding scholarships or financial assistance offered by MICD. Students looking for financial options may need to investigate possibilities available via Mid-West University or outside organizations.

The institute can provide direction on how to find and obtain the necessary financial help. Students are also urged to seek information from government and non-government organizations that offer grants for education in this field. Funding their studies might require some research, but it is worthwhile.

Achievements and Recognitions

The MICD program, now in its tenth year, is known for its relevance in modern circumstances, where a multi-sector approach to advancement is critical. Its partnership with the University of Pavia and its position in the Cooperation and Development Network (CDN) demonstrate its dedication to global education standards. 

It is an accomplishment that the institute's graduates effectively gain employment and contribute to advancement in different organizations. Additionally, the institute has received recognition for its focus on sustainable development and training qualified individuals for global work.

The program is known for its focus on practical skill development rather than theoretical studies. Many past students have gone on to work in leading national and international development organizations.

Why Choose This College?

Choosing the MICD program means entering a global group of students dedicated to encouraging growth and collaboration. The program's academic foundations are its main strength, along with a focus on practical skill development. Here are the key reasons to consider MICD:

• Global Perspective: The program offers a global viewpoint through the Cooperation and Development Network (CDN), which provides opportunities for international experiences and connections with peers from different regions. The international faculty also provides insights on various development methodologies.

• Experienced Instructors: The instructors are experts with significant professional experience. They improve the learning environment by sharing real-world knowledge, which means students learn not just from textbooks but from actual experiences.

• Practical Approach: MICD emphasizes practical skills through internship opportunities and projects, giving students hands-on experience in development work. These opportunities are critical to students' learning and support bridging the gap between education and professional practice.

• Career Prospects: The program prepares graduates for positions in various organizations, including United Nations agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government bodies, and other development-focused projects. Students are confident in their ability to move into their professional lives.

• Interdisciplinary Education: The program ensures an all-inclusive education to handle complex development problems, with diverse courses and viewpoints. Students gain knowledge of different sectors and fields to apply to real-world scenarios.

• Flexible Structure: The course structure is designed to accommodate working professionals, with classes offered on weekdays in the mornings. This makes it easier for students to continue their jobs while earning an advanced degree.

• Policy Analysis Emphasis: A significant aim of MICD is to develop people who can think critically about policy and use their knowledge in real-world situations. This ability is needed as it enables students to implement impactful solutions.

Conclusion

The Mid-West University Institute of Cooperation and Development (MICD) is not just a place of study but a place where future leaders and experts in international advancement are developed. The Master of International Cooperation and Development offers a unique combination of theory and practical abilities, all within a network that incorporates global collaborations.

MICD is where people can contribute meaningfully to society and become global citizens. Whether the aim is to work in government, NGOs, international agencies, or research, MICD offers a path towards that aim. The program's focus on quality, innovation, and worldwide collaboration makes it a central part of Mid-West University and a leader in studying international progress.