Maryam Promotes Equitable Governance

Since 2017, Sciences Po has been in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This partnership enables bright and ambitious students from Sub-Saharan Africa to enroll in a degree programme in the social sciences at Sciences Po, with the aim of training a new generation of change-makers in their home countries.

Maryam Sanni joined Sciences Po in 2021 to study International Governance and Diplomacy at the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA). As part of her third semester, she is currently doing an internship at the United Nations in Geneva, in the sustainable and energy division. Maryam is also a Scholar from the Mastercard Foundation Scholar Program, who wants to foster international cooperation, promote sustainable development, and advocate for equitable and just global governance.

what is your academic background? Why did you decide to study International Governance and Diplomacy at Sciences Po?

I am from the western part of Nigeria. I chose to pursue a Master's in International Governance and Diplomacy at Sciences Po because I'm deeply interested in policy-making and its impact on global issues. Sciences Po's program offers a unique opportunity to explore these challenges from diverse perspectives, while also facilitating interactions with world leaders and experts in various policy areas, making it the perfect place for me to further my understanding and contribute to meaningful change.

You are currently doing an internship at the UN in Geneva, what are your daily tasks?

I am working in the sustainable energy division of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) where my main tasks involve assisting in the coordination of intergovernmental and expert group meetings related to sustainable resource management.

My team's central focus is promoting the adoption of the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) among member states. We actively organise a series of capacity-building workshops in collaboration with relevant agencies and bodies from member states, aiming to showcase UNFC as a sustainable solution for resource management. I also conduct research on sustainable energy trends and policies in UNECE member states.

You joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po last year, can you share with us a significant memory of your journey with the other Scholars?

One of the most significant memories from my journey with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program was our visit to Chateau du Val in January. It was right at the beginning of the spring semester and at the end of what had been my first Christmas and new year away from home. It was a heartwarming experience where we had the opportunity to forge deeper connections with fellow Scholars, engage in spirited karaoke sessions, and hone our leadership skills. That experience helped me to go into the second semester with a sense of tranquility and newfound confidence.

You will be graduating in less than a year, what are your ambitions for the future?

My future ambitions encompass working at the intersection of international relations, diplomacy, and policy-making to address pressing global challenges. I aspire to leverage the knowledge and skills I've gained to foster international cooperation, promote sustainable development, and advocate for equitable and just global governance. Whether through diplomatic service, international organisations, or non-governmental initiatives, I aim to be an agent of positive change and bridge the gap between nations for a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Learn all you need to know about the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.