M.IDEA News and Events
Rachel Nicholas, M.IDEA 2004
Rachel Nicholas completed her Master in International Development and Environmental Analysis course with a High Distinction average in June 2004. Upon completion, she returned to her native New Zealand where she began working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Her work there revolves around biosecurity, an issue of great importance to New Zealand. New pests and diseases pose a major threat to the environment, economy and human health in New Zealand. Biosecurity strategies and activities aim to exclude, eradicate or effectively manage any new organisms arriving at New Zealand's borders.
Rachel works as an analyst for the Ministry's Biosecurity Strategic Unit (BSU), a high-level strategic policy group. The BSU is responsible for overseeing the nationwide biosecurity system, identifying priorities, making recommendations, and undertaking system-wide performance measurement and evaluation. The Unit's work covers the full range of environmental conservation, economic and human health issues and concerns.
Of her hew job, Rachel says, "It is interesting work, dealing with diverse and challenging issue,s and involving a large range of stakeholders. It is great to know that I am contributing to something so important to New Zealand. I'm not sure what the future holds for me, but this seems like a great place to start off my career and build on all the knowledge and skills I gained from the M.IDEA."
Well done, Rachel!