By Imelda Odudu
A New Beginning in Belgium
Safi Besmil was born in Afghanistan and has lived in Belgium for over a decade. His journey from Afghanistan to Belgium was driven by a desire to find safety, his love for EU projects, and build a better future. In Afghanistan, Safi held various positions at the United Nations, UNHCR, and IOM, and worked on other EU projects. Upon moving to Belgium, he set a clear goal for himself: to advance his career by obtaining a higher education that would align with his passion for working on European Union projects.
Discovering Uninettuno University
Safi’s search for academic advancement led him to Uninettuno University. He was particularly drawn to their Master’s in European Law and Policy program. This was influenced by his extensive experience working on EU projects in Afghanistan. When asked about his decision to choose Uninettuno, Safi explained, “When I moved to Belgium, I wanted to continue working on EU projects. I needed a program that was flexible enough to accommodate my work schedule. Uninettuno’s online Master’s in European Law and Policy program fit perfectly, allowing me to combine my studies with my full-time job.” He was sure the program would not only enhance his knowledge but also support his career aspirations. Also, the flexibility of Uninettuno’s online programs and the comprehensive curriculum focused on European Union law and policies made it an ideal choice for him.
Finding The Right Program
When searching for a Master’s program, Safi focused on migration studies. However, he struggled to find a suitable program in Belgium. “I saw some hybrid programs, but they weren’t feasible for me. I was then introduced to Uninettuno University. Although it wasn’t exactly a migration studies program, the European Law and Policy program encompassed all relevant modules, including migration and asylum policies,” he explained.
Safi found the program to be both broad and detailed, covering various EU policies and programs such as Erasmus, Green Deal, and Horizon 2020. “The program’s comprehensiveness and flexibility made it the best choice for me. It allowed me to learn about a wide range of EU policies and programs, which are crucial for my career.”
The Impact of the Program
Five months into the program, Safi has found it to be an enriching experience. “The online courses are incredibly flexible, allowing me to manage my full-time job while studying,” he said. “The course descriptions were very comprehensive. The modules covered everything from the history and culture of the European Union to specific policies like trade, agriculture, foreign policies, and most importantly for me, migration and asylum policy.”
Safi feels that the program has significantly contributed to his professional development. “Learning about migration and asylum policies in depth has made me more professional in my career,” he shared. “I have seen improvement and growth in my career path since I began this Master’s program.”
From Refugee to Advocate
Safi’s journey from Afghanistan to Belgium is evidence of his resilience and determination. He left his homeland due to ongoing conflict and sought asylum in Belgium. “I arrived in Belgium as a migrant and applied for asylum. After receiving refugee status, I started from scratch. I learned Dutch and some French and took integration courses,” he recalled.
Despite the challenges, Safi persevered and eventually found a job as an interpreter in the very office where asylum seekers submit their applications. “This experience wasn’t enough for me. I wanted to advance further in my career, so I decided to pursue a Master’s degree. Now, I am in the final stages of the program, and I am optimistic that it will help me secure a better position within EU institutions.”
The Role of Professors and Administration
Safi is particularly impressed by the quality of education and support he has received at Uninettuno University. “The professors and tutors are very flexible and responsive. They adhere to the schedules, and the professors are always available to clarify any doubts. The interactive classes are excellent, and the administrative processes are smooth and efficient,” he said.
He praised the high profile of the faculty, many of whom have extensive experience working in EU institutions. “One of the most notable professors is Romani Rody, a former president of the European Commission. His insights and experience have been invaluable,” Safi noted.
Motivation and Future Aspirations
Safi’s motivation is from his work in the migration sector. He explained “I am very proud of my work and the knowledge I’ve gained through this program. I have learned about practical issues in migration and asylum policies, which has enhanced my understanding of the field. After graduating, I am confident that I will be an even more effective migration and asylum officer.”
Advice for Incoming Students
Safi’s advice to incoming students is to start as soon as possible. “I love studying and working simultaneously. I recommend that new students take advantage of the comprehensive online programs offered by Uninettuno University especially those seeking to advance their career while managing other responsibilities. Without any doubt, I am very happy with this university and its online system. The updated materials and the professional expertise of the professors make it a prestigious institution. So start now or tomorrow if possible.
As the proverb goes, ‘If we pull a fish out of the water anytime, the fish would be fresh.’ It means that it’s never too late to start. The future of the European Union lies in the hands of the new generation.”
Safi Besmil’s journey from Afghanistan to Belgium, his pursuit of higher education, and his dedication to his career in migration and asylum policy serve as an inspiration. His story highlights the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and the pursuit of one’s passions. As he continues to navigate his career and education, Safi remains optimistic and driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world.
Through his experiences and insights, Safi encourages others to pursue their dreams and take advantage of the opportunities available to them. His journey is evidence of the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of education.
Yours Sincerely
Imelda
Contact Imelda: enakeno.odudu@gmail.com