Amita Thapa Magar already had a distinguished background in the environmental sector when she began studying at ANU. She worked on adaptation and disaster recovery in Nepal, in grassroots projects such as the Nepal Climate Change Support Program, which delivered local adaptation projects in areas like erosion prevention and drinking water schemes. She began the Master of Climate Change to take on a more technical and managerial role. 

‘I felt it was time to change my perspective and add a new and international approach to my skills’ Amita said.  

Nepal is extremely vulnerable to climate change, facing challenges such as increased flooding, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods due to the country’s mountainous terrain. The Nepalese Government is working on adaptation and mitigation strategies to help the country build climate resilience and promote sustainable development with the Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID) approach being a key strategy.  

After Amita winning an Australian Government scholarship, Amita chose ANU as it was highly recommended, and because Canberra's family-friendly environment, making it an ideal place for her and her family. 

For Amita, the best part of the degree was undoubtedly the people. The faculty's kindness and support, especially during her research project, made her experience exceptional. 

‘ANU is so different from the other universities I have experienced because it is so student oriented and supportive, especially the Crawford School of Public Policy’ Amita said.   

Having completed her studies in July 2024, Amita has returned to Nepal, rejoining Clean Energy Nepal, an NGO focused on clean air and climate change initiatives, with advocacy for a healthy environment for all. She is excited to apply her newfound knowledge and perspectives back home.