‘I am so grateful for the knowledge and experience I gained here’

University of Saskatchewan (USask) alumnus Mir Md Saifur Rahman (MPA’24) enjoyed his time as a graduate student in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (JSGS).

In fact, he found his studies to be so valuable, both personally and professionally, that he now recommends the university, the school, and the program to friends and family.

“I am so grateful for the knowledge and experience I gained here that I encouraged my youngest sister to enroll in the program, and my other sister plans to join next year,” he said.

“I highly recommend USask and JSGS to prospective students for their commitment to academic excellence and emphasis on real-world impact. The interdisciplinary approach of the JSGS program, combined with its practical focus, provides students with the skills and confidence to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society.”

Born and raised in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Rahman earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Language degree at the University of Dhaka before pursuing his MPA at JSGS and subsequently graduating during USask’s Spring Convocation in 2024. Rahman said the multidisciplinary nature of his undergraduate studies at the University of Dhaka—encompassing history, international relations, politics, and literature—played a crucial role in shaping his understanding of global governance, international development, and diplomacy, which ultimately led him to pursue an MPA at USask.

“Growing up, I was inspired by the vibrant culture and diverse challenges of my city, which sparked my interest in understanding global issues and working toward meaningful solutions,” he said.

The Green&White asked Rahman about his time at JSGS, his current career path, and what sparked his keen interest in public policy and public administration.

I decided to study at USask because of its strong reputation for fostering innovation, inclusion, and academic excellence. The university’s welcoming environment and its emphasis on community engagement resonated with my values and aspirations.

I chose to pursue a Master of Public Administration at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (JSGS) because of its interdisciplinary approach and focus on addressing complex public policy challenges. The program offered a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, aligning perfectly with my career goals in public administration and international development.

As a risk analyst with Global Affairs Canada, my task is to lead the development and streamlining of risk management frameworks, processes, and training to enhance risk literacy and capacity for international assistance and peace and security programming. I also provide strategic risk assessments, guidance on project proposals, and support consultations, planning, and harmonization of departmental risk procedures. Prior to this, I worked as a senior analyst at Global Affairs Canada, where I was supporting strategic planning, leading corporate reporting, and providing secretariat support for high-level policy committees. 

My education at USask provided me with critical analytical skills, a deep understanding of public policy frameworks, and practical experiences that translated seamlessly into my professional role. The program’s emphasis on collaboration and stakeholder engagement directly influenced my ability to navigate complex, multi-stakeholder environments at Global Affairs Canada.

I am deeply fascinated by public policy because it serves as a powerful tool for driving lasting change in society. Public administration complements this by providing the practical mechanisms needed to implement these policies effectively. Together, they create a framework to address societal challenges, promote equity, and ensure sustainable development.

After completing my (undergraduate) education, I began a career in international development, collaborating with organizations such as the Islamic Development Bank, European Union, World Bank, Cambridge Education, and the High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh. Through these experiences, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that well-crafted public policies can have on improving lives and fostering progress.

The best part of being a JSGS student was the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of peers and faculty who brought a wealth of perspectives to discussions. The collaborative learning environment, coupled with hands-on opportunities such as policy analysis projects and internships, was incredibly enriching.