Field Notes
David Chimphamba
"Hi, this is David Chimphamba, one of the students of the class of Master of Arts Political Science from University of Delhi, batch of 2020-2022.To study in India, and specifically at DU is a great opportunity and honour for everyone. My stay at DU was very beneficial both academically and culturally.
Knowledge and skills acquired from the professors helped me develop my knowledge and analytical skills. Concepts, theories and models learnt from the programme of political science has also enhanced my analytical skills in both public policy and good governance.
We also had an opportunity to learn the history of India, and more about Indian political thought. As an International student, I was also privileged to appreciate indian cultural diversity development.
Professors from DU are very recommendable and professional on their work.
Given an opportunity to study further, I can always choose DU as my favourite environment for me to develop my skills to be a good and sound leader.
I also applauds the DU leadership for their professional and sound leadership.
David Chimphamba - DU alumni (Malawi-Southern Africa)"
Hasibur Rahman
"I’m Hasibur Rahman from Bangladesh, currently pursuing an M.A. in Political Science at the University of Delhi on an ICCR scholarship. After finishing my law degree back home, I realized something was missing. I wanted to go beyond legal theory and explore the bigger picture—how political systems shape our world. DU, with its rich academic landscape, felt like the perfect place for that.
But arriving wasn’t easy. Political unrest in Bangladesh delayed my journey, and I landed in India just days before exams. I still remember the anxiety—new country, unfamiliar faces, and looming deadlines. Yet, in that whirlwind of uncertainty, something unexpected happened. My batchmates and seniors, whom I barely knew, stepped in. They shared notes, explained what I’d missed, and made me feel at home in a place that wasn’t mine yet.
What truly changed me, though, was the diversity around me. With over 720 students from different backgrounds, I’ve been immersed in cultures, ideas, and perspectives I’d never encountered before. It’s more than just academics; it’s a journey of understanding—of politics, of people, and of how interconnected our world really is.
Looking back, this experience has been about more than getting a degree. It’s been about finding my place in a global community, one that I never imagined would feel so much like home."
Himansa Dias
"My experience at the Department of Political Science, Delhi University, has been immensely enriching. Being an ICCR scholar nominated by the Ministry of Education in Sri Lanka, I felt privileged to join the arduous but well-structured academic program of masters in Political Science. Initially, I was apprehensive about my non-academic background in political science. However, the professors skillfully could deliver the lectures in simple and understandable ways and were always ready to help in any queries we have. The professors were available after the lectures, willing to address any kind of question.
Living in Delhi has been an eye-opener in terms of cultural diversity. As an educational hub, the city of North Delhi with the university in the middle, has a very diverse and multi-cultural community who are speaking diverse languages, fallowing various religions, and traditions. Indians are very hospitable, helpful people. The friends I had made at university were very influential and very much helpful in making my adjustment to the Indian culture and the university environment from the very beginning. They were very supportive.
Although I did face certain obstacles, such as adjustment with a new education system and homesickness in the initial days, the friends I had in the university did help me to overcome these hurdles. Overall, my experience in Delhi University is transformational: not only academic excellence but also cultural immersion. I highly recommend this university to any international student."
Hudson
"Hi my Name is Hudson Mankhwala Jr and I'm a 2022 Alumni of the MA political Science program. Pursuing a Master of Arts in Political Science at the University of Delhi was a transformative experience for me as an international student from Malawi, Africa. The university provides an excellent teaching environment, characterized by knowledgeable and approachable professors who are passionate about their subjects. My classmates were incredibly supportive, fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere. The vibrant culture of Delhi, with its rich history and diverse food, has made my stay even more enriching. The blend of academic rigour and cultural exposure broadened my perspectives, making this journey truly unforgettable academic experience."
Mao Kuydorng
"It was a great experience, ever, that provided me not only new skills but also unforgettable memories. For two years of studying in this university, I had met multiple students from various countries and states in India. We gained and shared diverse social, cultural and political knowledge from and to each other. Moreover, the education system and course syllabus at DU captured and surprised me a lot. Particularly, the longhand writing exam is another pristine experience for me. In my last words, studying in DU was my long-life experience.
I am grateful to all professors, lecturers, and staff at University of Delhi for their efforts, kindness, and assistance."
Meron Amine Tesfar
"During my time at Delhi University, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant academic environment of the Department of Political Science. Completing my M.A. in Political Science was not only a crucial step in my educational journey but also a transformative experience that shaped my understanding of global and local political dynamics. The faculty, renowned for their expertise and commitment, played a pivotal role in my learning, encouraging critical thinking and engaging discussions. Courses on comparative politics and international relations resonated with me, deepening my understanding of different political systems and their impacts on societies.
Beyond the classroom, I participated in various extracurricular activities that enriched my university experience. The Political Science Society organized seminars that fostered a culture of intellectual exchange among students. This experience not only enhanced my analytical skills but also reinforced my commitment to using my knowledge for social good. Furthermore, I enhanced my research and technical capacity, which helped me build a professional network and receive constructive feedback from experts in the field. Overall, my time at Delhi University was marked by a blend of rigorous academic pursuits and meaningful extracurricular involvement, all of which equipped me with the skills and insights needed to navigate the complexities of the political landscape. I am proud and grateful for the experiences that have prepared me for future challenges in my career."
Mohammad Shafiq Sultan
"My time in the Department of Political Science has been enriching both academically and personally. As an international student, I have found the faculty's support and the intellectually stimulating environment highly beneficial for my research pursuits. The diverse perspectives shared by both professors and peers have greatly enhanced my understanding of global political issues, especially in my research on foreign policy and strategy, South Asia, Diplomacy, International Security, Multilateralism, Peace and conflict studies, Comparative politics and Area studies. In terms of extracurricular achievements, I have actively participated in various academic conferences and workshops. Additionally, I was recently selected for the Feminist Foreign Policy Fellowship, an international program organized by IMPRI and The Asia Foundation, which has been a highlight of my time here."
Rikuto Ito
"Konnichiwa, everyone. Even though I struggle to adjust to a new place and education system, I am trying to bring my perspectives from my academic and career background to the classroom. I am an ICCR scholar from Tokyo, Japan. I have graduated from School of International and Area Studies at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (BA) and studied Area Studies, International Relations, and Hindi. I have also served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan as an Attaché at the Embassy of Japan in India, where I played a role in Japan’s G20 engagements and supported high-level diplomatic initiatives.
I am a passionate traveler and photographer, and have visited 25 states and 3 union territories of India, driven by the ambition to explore the entire country.
Rikuto Ito (伊藤陸人)"
Waleed
"At Delhi University, I gained academic knowledge and personal growth. Academically, I developed a deeper understanding of political science concepts, which enriched my analytical thinking. Additionally, interacting with professors and students from diverse backgrounds helped me improve my English language skills. These interactions not only boosted my confidence in communicating, but also exposed me to new perspectives and fostered cultural exchange. The university experience has equipped me with valuable critical thinking skills, enhanced my adaptability, broadened my global outlook and made me an ambitious and eager learner."
Zoum
"I am highly honored to be a part of the Department of Political Science at the University of Delhi and to start a significant phase of my life- PhD career. Here, I have met knowledgeable and conscientious supervisors, professors, and bright and helpful classmates. Their presentations and discussions in or out of class, as well as the way they think, captivate me and encourage me to keep going. Through exchanges with them, I not only deepened my understanding of political science and international relations but also made me understand the profoundness of Indian culture and the wisdom of Indian friends. I also deeply felt the importance of enhancing the exchange and integration of different civilizations. I have greatly valued my experiences in India over the past two years or so, from classes, lectures, and conferences to think tank exchanges, from meals, traveling to the community, all of which have deepened my overall understanding of India. I look forward to continuing to learn from professors, classmates, and friends in the future, completing my doctoral studies, and contributing to the development and exchanges between the two countries."
