The skill development committee of 3 MAIS conducted a session on skill development session on careers in the area of NGOs & INGOs on 14 August. The session was attended by the students of 3 MAIS along with students of final students of undergraduate courses as well. The session was addressed by Mr Joe Christopher. Mr Christopher works in the US consulate in Hyderabad as an assistant for cultural affairs. Before his current tenure in the US consulate, he worked in various fields. He finished a PhD from English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad. Mr Christopher was introduced by Soorya Srinivasan of 3 MAIS.

Mr Christopher presented various stories and personal experiences from his life to highlight the skills needed for careers. He highlighted the need for communication skills and research skills for development of projects. He talked extensively on the trend of anti-corruption bills and farm laws. He highlighted his work and his experience working with NGOs highlighting the actions.  He also talked about the international dimension, the foundations run by German political parties as well as the actions of German development fund and Fredrick Newman foundation. He talked in detail about his current position within the US consulate and the tasks. Coordinating small projects around the states of Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana. He listed the key programs that highlight the mutual interests of the US and the states in India. He also talked about the role of market economics and financial interests when it comes to NGO projects. He detailed the process of fundraising and how the NGOs coordinate various projects.

He also talked about the necessary skills needed for a strong career in NGOs&INGOs. He pressed upon the training and learning on  the job. He emphasised the need for networking and connections to improve one’s career. He pressed the students to improve their reading and global understanding of culture and society for better communication with foreign officials and contacts. He followed the session with a Q&A session where he answered the questions raised by the students. The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Raga Ramakrishnan of 3 MAIS.