Enrichment fellow works on creating sound public policy through economics

Degree: Master’s

College: Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions

Please tell us about your academic and professional background.

I am Andalib Mushtari. I'm from Kapisa Province, Afghanistan and I grew up in Kabul. In 2007, I earned my bachelor's degree from Kabul University. After a few years of working with international non-governmental organizations, the private sector and the government, in 2018, I got a scholarship with the Japan International Cooperation Agency to get my first master's in development policies from Japan. I have more than 15 years of working experience in different economic development fields, and my last job was as Director of Economic Policies and Programs Analysis in the Ministry of Finance, where I served for three years. My graduate education is also essential to my goal of becoming an economic and public policy researcher and expert. I appreciate the Graduate College for providing the Graduate College Enrichment Fellowship scholarship and an outstanding opportunity to reach my career goals.

What’s something you learned during your professional or academic journey that surprised you or changed your perspective?

Graduate studies bring many changes to any person. I learned a lot during my first graduate education period. I learned to be responsible, honest and diligent in my job and duties. Knowledge brings positivity and can change human life and society.

What types of problems do you work on and why do you think they are important?

There is a big problem and weakness in my country at a very high policymaking level, where I was also involved in developing long-term strategies and policies for the development of my country. Afghanistan’s previous government depended highly on international economists and policy development experts to develop strategies and policies. They hired experts and developed the Afghanistan National Priority Programs. They copied and pasted these programs from other countries’ documents, such as India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Finding an economist and policy development expert with the required knowledge and experience with dynamic, cultural and geographical information is almost impossible to develop the right policies. Unfortunately, due to some cultural opposition, the programs failed, and Afghanistan lost a tremendous amount of investment. I understood the problems, which made me study further and become a competent researcher and policymaker. Obtaining a Master’s degree in Public Administration will enable me to enrich my knowledge further and fill the gap mentioned above or work as an international consultant in dealing with Asian countries.

How did you become involved in this work? What inspired you?

The economy is the base of everything; with a high and strong economic base, we can go forward successfully in any other fields and areas. The economic area is a common area and its services support almost everyone. I enjoy it when I take a small part and contribute to significant projects serving people all over the country/area and helping humans.

How have you interacted with the Graduate College? Is there an event, initiative or funding opportunity you’re excited about?

The Graduate College not only provided me the opportunity to be admitted as a graduate student but also provided me with a scholarship and made it possible to start my journey. I saw many more opportunities for students, such as teacher's assistant opportunities, internships, on-campus and off-campus jobs, scholarships and awards, etc., all of which are initiatives that excite me and other students.

What advice do you have for students interested in your field or higher education?

I advise taking advantage of chances. Life is not repeating and events are not always coming – take advantage of opportunities when they come. They should decide if they want to study further and learn updated knowledge. ASU is the right place with lots of assistance, facilities and support to reach their ambitions.

What are your relaxation practices to recharge during the semester?

My family is also here with me. I spend my weekends with my wife and our three beautiful children, visiting parks and some friends to refresh for the next week of study life.

What are some of your long-term professional goals?

My long-term professional goal is to further study to the doctorate level and become a competent economist and public policy expert.

Learn more about the Graduate College Enrichment Fellowship