Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Department of Development Studies

Impetus

Largely because of a poor foundation of peace and good governance, development in Africa tends to be sluggish and obstructed. Corruption, poor regulation, and lack of capacity and technical expertise are also significant contributors to underdevelopment in Africa. There is a real need for development studies to train future leaders on how to successfully pursue sustainable economic and social development within their communities. The 2 year Sustainable Development program will provide capacity-building for Cameroonians to work towards sustainable developmental and economic growth in Africa.

Objectives

1. Students will be able to analyze and assess the necessity and feasibility of development projects, taking into consideration the risk factors involved as well as the sustainability of the project.
2. Students will be able to identify the spoilers to development, internally and externally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
3. Students will be able to compose their own comprehensive development project proposals and present it in a coherent, organized, and convincing manner.
4. Students will be skilled in managing complex and multidimensional projects, understanding risk factors, sustainability, and other contributors to successful program implementation

Expected Outcomes

Students will be capable of working in the development field and will have the skills to collaborate and form lasting partnerships with governmental and civil society groups at the regional, national, and international levels. After the classroom curriculum and complementary internship component, students will be prepared for a successful career in the field of development, whether with the government in public administration or with a not-for-profit organization. Students should be able to evaluate the results of the programs they implement in order to establish models and identify best practices for other community leaders.