May Myat Noe, a Master’s student in the Natural Resources Management program at the AIT School of Environment, Resources, and Development, shares her journey at the 2024 Summer School on “Enhancing Academic Qualifications in Teaching and Research in Global Health,” hosted by the Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH) at Heidelberg University, Germany. The program ran from July 12 to July 26 (Online Phase) and August 1 to August 29 (On-site Phase).
Participating in the 2024 Summer School on “Enhancing Academic Qualifications in Teaching and Research in Global Health” at HIGH was an experience that exceeded all my expectations.
When I received the acceptance email confirming my selection as a DAAD scholar, it felt like a dream come true. Coming from a background in Law and Natural Resources Management, this was my first foray into the field of Global Health—a significant new chapter in my academic journey.
The program began with an online phase from July 12 to 26, 2024, which focused on the “Participatory Teaching Techniques” module. During this phase, I gained valuable skills in creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment. This foundation in participatory approaches to teaching will undoubtedly benefit my future academic career.
The on-site phase in Heidelberg from August 1 to 29, 2024, was the highlight of the program. Being physically present at the Heidelberg Institute of Global Health opened up a wealth of opportunities to delve deeper into global health and spark new interests. Sessions like “Quality and Ethics in Human Health Research” provided critical insights into conducting ethical health research. I learned the importance of maintaining honesty, transparency, and ethical principles, especially in human health- related studies—knowledge that has already proven helpful in my current research.
One of the most valuable sessions was on “Grant Proposal Writing.” This module equipped me with essential skills for developing persuasive grant proposals to secure research funding. I believe that mastering the structure of successful proposals and identifying potential funding sources will significantly benefit both my academic and professional life.
Throughout the program, we participated in group discussions, collaborative projects, and presentations, which made the learning process both effective and enjoyable. Working with intelligent, active, and friendly participants from diverse regions—Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, South Asia, and Southeast Asia—fostered a vibrant intercultural learning environment. Our group work allowed us to apply what we had learned to real-world scenarios, while our presentations helped us develop our ideas and collaborate in innovative ways.
Beyond the classroom, the program included excursions to renowned institutions such as Deutsche Welle (DW), the Center for Development Research (ZEF), the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) in Germany, and the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. These visits offered a broader perspective on how policy, communication, and research intersect to shape global public health. Witnessing firsthand how these institutions tackle health issues was an invaluable experience.
Outside of academics, I had the chance to explore the beauty of Germany and its neighboring countries. From the charming town of Heidelberg to the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland and France, my travels added another layer of richness to this experience. The weather was perfect for sightseeing, with warm days and cool evenings. The hospitality of the locals made my stay even more memorable, giving me a glimpse into everyday life and culture in this part of Europe.
This program was not only about academic growth but also about forming lasting relationships. The friendships I made with fellow participants and the connections with kind and knowledgeable lecturers have been invaluable. These bonds will serve as a strong foundation for future collaborations, and I am eager to maintain them as I advance in my career.
This summer school not only introduced me to new academic concepts but also expanded my professional network and immersed me in a dynamic international learning environment. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), BMZ, the Heidelberg Institute of Global Health and AIT for providing this incredible opportunity. This experience has been a transformative moment in my academic journey—one that I will cherish forever.
