Environmental Management Programme (CIPSEM) Participant Olujumoke Adesola Ogunrayi from Nigeria Shares Her Journey of Studying in Germany

My name is Olujumoke Adesola Ogunrayi, and I am an environmental and climate change professional from Nigeria with over a decade of experience in environmental governance, sustainability, and climate policy. I currently work with the Ondo State Ministry of Environment in Nigeria, where I have served in several capacities, including as Director of Climate Change. I participated in the 37th Environmental Management Programme (EM37) at the Centre for International Postgraduate Studies of Environmental Management (CIPSEM) hosted by Technische Universität Dresden in Germany. The programme brings together professionals from different parts of the world to strengthen leadership and policy capacity in environmental management and sustainable development. My academic and professional interests focus on climate change adaptation, coastal vulnerability, and sustainable environmental governance. These interests also led me to pursue a PhD in Integrated Coastal Zone Management, focusing on the socio-economic vulnerability of coastal communities to climate change in Nigeria.

Educational Background

My educational background is rooted in environmental science and climate-related studies. From an early stage in my academic journey, I became fascinated with weather systems, environmental processes, their complex and sometimes chaotic nature, and how they influence human lives and economic activities. I pursued my first and second degrees in Meteorology and Climate Science, fields closely related to environmental management and climate studies. These programmes provided a strong foundation in understanding atmospheric processes, climate variability, environmental systems, and their implications for policy and sustainable development. Before attending the CIPSEM programme in Germany, I had already gained substantial professional experience working in environmental governance in Nigeria. This combination of academic training and practical government experience prepared me well for the interdisciplinary and policy-focused discussions within the programme. The CIPSEM training further strengthened my capacity in environmental leadership, international environmental policy, and sustainable development strategies.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Technische Universität Dresden (CIPSEM)?

My preparation involved researching international training opportunities that could strengthen my expertise in environmental governance and sustainability. I was particularly interested in programmes that brought together professionals from different countries to exchange knowledge and experiences. When I discovered the programme at Technische Universität Dresden, I realized it was closely aligned with my professional interests. I carefully prepared my application materials, highlighting my experience in environmental management, my work in climate policy, and my commitment to advancing sustainable development in Nigeria. I also emphasized how the knowledge and skills gained from the programme would contribute to strengthening environmental management practices in my country.

What Drew You to Choose Germany to Pursue Your Degree?

A colleague who knew about my professional interests first recommended the CIPSEM programme in Germany to me. When I conducted further research, I discovered that Germany has a strong global reputation for high-quality education, particularly in environmental science, engineering, and sustainability studies. What makes Germany especially attractive for international students is the accessibility of its public education system, where many universities offer tuition-free or low-cost programmes. For professionals from developing countries, this creates opportunities to access world-class education and training that might otherwise be financially out of reach. Germany is also internationally recognized for its leadership in environmental policy, renewable energy, and sustainable development. Studying there offered an invaluable opportunity to learn from global best practices and interact with professionals from many different countries.

What Were Some of the Challenges You Faced as an International Student?

Like many international participants, adapting to a new environment initially required some adjustment. Differences in food, culture, climate, and daily routines took some time to get used to. Fortunately, the programme provided strong support for participants, including accommodation and a stipend, which allowed us to focus fully on the academic and professional aspects of the training. Another concern I initially had was the language barrier. Although the programme was conducted in English, we were also provided with introductory German language training. This was very helpful for everyday interactions and cultural integration.

Looking Back, Would You Recommend Studying Here for International Students Seeking Affordable Higher Education?

Yes, I would strongly recommend Germany to international students seeking high-quality and affordable education. Germany’s public universities offer excellent academic training, strong research environments, and international exposure. The tuition-free education system significantly reduces financial barriers, making it possible for students from diverse backgrounds to access world-class learning opportunities. Another important advantage is that the opportunities do not end after completing the programme. Becoming part of the German academic and professional alumni network opens doors to additional opportunities such as research visits, summer schools, and professional training programmes. Many alumni continue to benefit from engagement through initiatives supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which provides further academic and networking opportunities. Germany invests in its alumni and continues to support their professional growth long after their studies are completed.

How Is Your Experience at Technische Universität Dresden (CIPSEM)?

My experience at Technische Universität Dresden through the Centre for International Postgraduate Studies of Environmental Management (CIPSEM) programme was extremely enriching. The programme brought together 21 professionals from different countries, creating a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange and collaborative learning. It included lectures, field visits, excursions, and interactions with international experts and scholars, including participants from the Humboldt network. The experience was both academically stimulating and culturally enriching. The CIPSEM programme exposed me to a world of opportunities. Concepts and policy approaches that were sometimes difficult to fully grasp within my local context became much clearer through international perspectives, practical case studies, and interactions with experts from different countries.

How Do You Rate Technische Universität Dresden (CIPSEM) Academically?

I would rate the institution very highly. Technische Universität Dresden is known for its strong academic standards, well-structured programmes, and excellent faculty. The CIPSEM programme, in particular, combines academic knowledge with practical policy insights, making it highly relevant for professionals working in environmental management and sustainability.

How Does Technische Universität Dresden (CIPSEM) Support International Students?

The institution provides a supportive environment for international participants. Programme coordinators and academic staff ensure that participants receive the guidance needed to navigate the academic schedule, adapt to the learning environment, and fully engage in the programme. International cohorts also create a strong peer network where participants learn from one another’s experiences and perspectives.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

The CIPSEM programme was conducted in English, making it accessible to participants from many different countries.

What Did You Pursue After the Programme?

After completing the programme, I continued my work in environmental governance and climate policy in Nigeria. The experience strengthened my leadership capacity and broadened my international professional network. It also contributed significantly to my continued academic development. I later pursued a PhD in Integrated Coastal Zone Management, focusing on the socio-economic vulnerability of coastal communities to climate change in Nigeria, supported through a scholarship programme linked to the World Bank. The CIPSEM experience played an important role in shaping my research interests and strengthening my commitment to sustainable environmental governance.

Would Potential Students Have Problems Academically Without Knowing the Native Language?

Not necessarily. Many international programmes in Germany, particularly those designed for global participants, are conducted entirely in English. However, learning basic German can still be helpful for daily life, cultural integration, and everyday interactions with the local community.

Closing Reflection

Studying in Germany is more than an academic opportunity. It is a gateway to global knowledge, professional networks, and lifelong learning. For me, the experience demonstrated that when knowledge, opportunity, and international collaboration come together, they can empower individuals from any part of the world to contribute meaningfully to solving global challenges.