Economics student travels to India to learn about development first-hand
A Sussex undergraduate is flying to India this month to help improve the lives of some of the world’s most impoverished people and their communities.
Philippa Marshall, who has just completed the first year of a joint degree in Economics and International Development, will spend three months in southern city of Bangalore to learn about vital issues such as water supply and sanitation.
Pippa secured a place on the government-funded International Citizen Service (ICS) scheme which gives young people aged 18-25 opportunities to contribute to long-term development projects around the world.
Pippa told her local newspaper: “The project I’m working on is run by development charity Raleigh International Trust. They focus on natural resource management such as water and sanitation projects.”
The trip to India ties in with her studies and her plans for a future career. Pippa said: “I definitely think volunteering on a trip like this will help when it comes to studying International Development and having something to refer and relate to.”
As part of the ICS scheme, when Pippa returns from India she will pursue an ‘Action at Home’ project to put her newly acquired skills into action for the benefit of her home community.
She added: “I would like a job in this field, hopefully for an NGO, and I’m sure going to India will inspire me to pursue this.
“This is a unique opportunity to work alongside people from a different culture who have requested help from young volunteers to fight poverty and make a difference where it’s needed most. I’m really excited to get out there.”
After working to raise money for the Raleigh International Trust, Pippa has reached her target of £800. Donations can still be made via JustGiving.