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"It is a unique opportunity to learn about a completely different coastal ecosystem"

I find Coastal Ecology very interesting. It focuses on sustainable use and management of the coastal ecosystem, emerging environmental problems and identifying solutions.

Manoj Kumar Chand from Nepal

Master in Coastal Ecology

Please introduce yourself. 

My name is Manoj Kumar Chand, and I am from the country of Higher Himalayas (Mt.Everest), Nepal. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Coastal Ecology at UiA. I am a graduate of Environmental Management from my home country. My previous professional expertise and interest is the resilience of communities towards climate change-induced disaster.

I love to travel across different geographical regions and learn more about their flora, fauna and liveability. 

Why did you choose Norway?

Norway is believed to provide high quality education in various disciplines - with no tuition fees. In addition, Norway is environmentally friendly and is deliberately working on combating Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and global warming. Therefore, as an Environment activist, studying in Norway is a great opportunity for me. 

When looking at universities, what stood out about UiA?

I was attracted by the study programme, the enrolment of international students and the location of the university.

What were your first impressions upon arrival?

I was curious about the weather in Kristiansand. When I arrived, I felt the weather was quite suitable for me. I also liked seeing all the greenery on the side of the roads.

I also find Norwegian people to be responsive and friendly, and this helped me to settle well in the city.

What do you think about your course in particular?

It is clear that our blue planet has been in trouble for a while now, and that this is the time to work together and save it. I find the study programme very interesting. It focuses on sustainable use and management of the coastal ecosystem, emerging environmental problems and identifying solutions, as well as regulating and monitoring of marine ecosystem from multiple dimensions. 

What do you like about Kristiansand and why? 

It has a very pleasant environment. I like the fjords and the forest, the museums in the city, the people, who I find very friendly, and the eco-conscious lifestyle. I like to spend my weekends in nature, hiking. 

What was one thing you discovered about Norway that was unexpected? 

The weather is fluctuating every day. I also really like that you can experience all seasons – it’s really amazing!

What would you like to share about UiA to your home country?

There are many things which I believe are excellent at UiA: the teaching and learning methodologies, the interaction between students and lecturers, the well-equipped physical infrastructure and the career opportunities for students. 

Do you think UiA has given you any unique opportunities?

It is a unique opportunity to learn about a completely different coastal ecosystem. Furthermore, it helps me understand the relationship between the freshwater in the Higher Himalayas and marine water.