MDP Student Spotlight: Gontse Gqamana
The Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) is a two-year graduate program that trains practitioners to understand, design, and manage integrated approaches to sustainable development challenges. The program equips students with critical knowledge, practical skills, and the mindset needed to drive change in both developing and developed societies.
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) is pleased to spotlight Gontse Gqamana, a Leopold Bachmann Foundation (LBF) Scholar Master’s in Development Practice at the University of Pretoria. We asked Gontse five questions about her journey and her experience with the Global MDP Association.
Which SDG are you most passionate about?
SDG 4: Quality Education for All
What is the best part about working on your MDP degree program?
Viewing and understanding the SDGs and development in South Africa, as well as Africa, from a different perspective. Development in South Africa is not just a money issue – it is a web of challenges, with leadership at the centre.
What is something that you are proud to have accomplished while working on your current MDP degree program?
The date is 9 September 2025, the program ends in November, and I am glad to have made it this far. I have learned so much about myself while improving on my ability to manage my time, work under pressure, and complete research at a different level. That is my favourite accomplishment, completing my research.
How is the Leopold Bachmann Foundation helping you advance your career and aspirations?
Through the funding provided, they have made it possible to realize my dream of completing my Master’s in 2025. This degree will make it easier for me to map out my next steps for my career and access new employment opportunities.
What is a fun fact about you? Something others might not know?
Since completing my first postgraduate certificate, I have always worked in the NGO sector, mainly in fundraising, but this has exposed me to development from the grassroots level. Something others might not know about me is that I take pictures of waterfalls, sunsets, food, and flowers, but none of myself. I have been working on improving that for a few years now. One day, right?
Gontse’s journey reflects how the MDP program empowers students to blend innovation, tradition, and personal passion in the pursuit of sustainable development. Learn more about the MDP Program and read our other MDP Student Spotlights.
