Monash Public Policy Global Study Tour: Exploring Political, Social, and Economic Change in Contemporary India
Master’s students of public policy from Monash's Melbourne and Indonesia campuses visiting the Indonesian Embassy in New Delhi, India
Jakarta, 6th February 2024 - Monash University, Indonesia’s Master of Public Policy and Management (MPPM) program recently concluded its study tour to India, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore the political, social, and economic dynamics of this emerging global powerhouse. From 2nd to 20th December 2023, participants undertook an exhilarating 18-day journey, delving into the intricacies of India's unique public policy landscape.
Led by Associate Professor Deirdre O’Neill, Associate Dean Education (Student Experience), and Director, Public Policy Graduate Programs in the Faculty of Arts at Monash University, along with Dr. Altaf Virani, Course Coordinator of the MPPM at Monash University, Indonesia, the study tour brought together public policy students from Monash's Melbourne and Indonesia campuses on a global study tour for the very first time.
During this 3-week study tour, students studied at O. P. Jindal Global University (JGU), a leading private university in India and a valued partner of Monash. The cohort, comprising 22 students from both campuses, brought rich experience of working across public, private, and non-government sectors, representing current and future policymakers and policy practitioners deeply engaged with public policy in the Australian and Indonesian contexts.
The study tour offered an enriching learning experience, prompting students to broaden their horizons and develop as global policy practitioners. It fostered discussions spanning a range of topics, from the political context of policy making and the economics of public policy to gender and development, sustainable cities, climate change, health economics and policy, and India's role in the South Asian region.
Students attending a seminar at the JGU campus by Prof. R. Sudarshan, Dean, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy
In addition to academic sessions and policy discussions, the students participated in field immersion visits such as a visit to the village of Chatiya Auliya to meet with women from Self Help Groups and meetings with Monash's partners, including a visit to the Australian High Commission and the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in New Delhi. Moreover, the tour included cultural experiences and visits to historical sites, such as Humayun’s Tomb, the Delhi Haat market, Akshardham Temple, Lodi Gardens, Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chokhi Dhani, and a day trip to Agra Fort and the iconic Taj Mahal.
Day trip to the iconic Taj Mahal
Reflecting on this immersive experience, students shared their perspectives on the study tour.
Maryam sharing her experience about the India study tour
Baiq Siti Maryam, one of the participating students in this tour, says, "This program helped me in developing a global network and friendships across cultural boundaries and had a significant positive impact on my learning, through exchanging ideas, and sharing experiences and interests. Every nation has its own set of policies, laws and regulations. I received a wealth of knowledge and learnt a lot about study strategies and work opportunities from my Australian and Indian friends, which is advantageous for both my academic growth and my post-graduation career."
Satriya receiving his certificate from Prof. Shaun Star, Director, Centre for India Australia Studies, JGU
I Gusti Ngurah Satriya Wibawa, who is a staff analyst in the Ministry of Finance, highlighted his learning on policy adaptation. He says, "The study tour to India was a valuable experience. India is a vast country with a rich history and diverse culture, similar to Indonesia. I had to adapt to its cuisine. This adaptation is a keyword even in policy formulation. I learned that in public policy, no one can please everyone; there are always consequences to be paid, a trade-off. And as policymakers, such experience is important to make good decisions."
Muhammad Ramdhan Inayattulloh, a Budget Analyst at the Directorate General of Budget, drew attention to the value of collaborative global learning. He says, "The India study tour offered a comprehensive global public policy study experience. Through seminars, visits, and collaborative group sessions, participants gained insight into contemporary political, social, and economic issues. The program emphasised the significance of policy-making in addressing collective regional and international challenges, including diplomacy."
Meanwhile, Annisa Fauzia, a Policy Analyst at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs, said that the India study tour provided her valuable insights and unforgettable memories. Collaborating with students from different countries, she says, enriched her learning, fostered global understanding, and created lasting connections.
"I highly recommend this unit to all Monash MPPM students for a unique and insightful global policy experience.", added Firman Syah, who has served as Senior Public Service and General Affairs Officer, at BPJS Ketenagakerjaan.
(From left to right): Photo with Ibu Tantia Dian Permata Indah, COO Monash University, Indonesia, Ibu Ina Hagniningtyas Krisnamurthi, LBBP RI Ambassador for India, and Dr. Altaf Virani, Course Coordinator, MPPM program.
Dr. Altaf Virani, who leads the MPPM program in Indonesia, emphasises, "The Political, Social and Economic Change in Contemporary India – India Study Tour is Monash’s flagship educational program organised for students in the Global Studies specialisation of the Master of Public Policy at Monash University, Australia, and the Master of Public Policy and Management at Monash University, Indonesia, designed to familiarise students with the dynamics of policy making in a global environment and its challenges. Using India as a case study, students learn about the policy responses of the Indian state on key policy issues, challenges confronting India’s policymakers, and how NGOs, local communities and citizens are playing an instrumental role in policy and governance.
By gaining firsthand insights and exploring policy responses to key challenges, participants develop a deeper understanding of global public policy dynamics. This immersive experience enriches their academic journey and prepares them to contribute meaningfully as future policy practitioners.
Moreover, it expands their ability to work in cross-cultural environments, provides transnational networking opportunities, and opens up avenues for future collaboration between global peers.
I would highly encourage anyone looking to develop a global public policy perspective to undertake the study tour to India. It is, in my view, a one of its kind opportunity, and truly unforgettable experience."
About the MPPM
The MPPM program builds practical knowledge and skills in policy-making, policy analysis and public management across the spectrum of public sector activities. The course is aimed at developing understanding of the processes of policy formulation, implementation and delivery of public services and programs, and the political and structural realities that influence decision-making.
The degree offers flexibility to tailor your study to your career goals through the choice of two specialisations: The Policy studies stream will widen your disciplinary perspectives of public policy and provide you with a potential pathway to undertake a higher research-based degree. The Global studies stream will develop your skills and knowledge of public policy in international contexts, and prepare you for a global public policy career. Students taking this specialisation have the opportunity to enrol in approved elective units taught by Monash Australia, the option to take a study tour to India, and conclude their studies with a dedicated capstone focusing on a global policy challenge.
For further information, please visit the MPPM course page.