For MPA Fatou Kiné Gueye of the Environmental Science and Policy (MPA-ESP) of the Columbia International Public Affairs Institute (SIPA), protecting the environment is not just a passion, it is not just a passion; it is a mission derived from heritage and hopes for a better future.
Growing up in Senegal, Gueye has built deep connections with the ocean and is eager to serve her community. Her experience in environmental consulting opened her eyes to the need to establish a stronger leadership and policy framework for her home country and led her to a career in environmental policy.
In the conversation below, Gueye shares her views on climate action and her ambitions for the future from the MPA-ESP program.
What sparked your interest in environmental and climate policy?
Senegal is an important part of my identity and I have always felt a close connection to my home. When I grew up, I was fascinated by the environment. My father, who has a deep understanding of agriculture, played a major role in shaping this interest. My sister and I often think about how we serve the community, which has inspired my passion for environmental issues.
Initially, because of my love for the ocean, I wanted to work in marine conservation. But when I worked as an environmental consultant in Senegal, I realized that despite the enormous potential and resources our country has, we lack the leadership and structural systems needed to effectively manage them. There is no necessary tool or policy at all. This awareness led me to a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. I know I need to understand science at a basic level to help design policies that reflect this understanding.
How did your time at SIPA help you with your interests? What surprised you most about this program?
Sipa showed me that I didn’t have to limit myself to one area. I can explore environmental justice, energy, water and issues related to the ocean in the same space. It’s not only about studying these topics, but about applying them – putting different communities on the table and working to achieve meaningful change.
SIPA is very diverse, but I noticed the lack of representation in African communities. That being said, the level of humanity I experienced here is encouraging. My classmates brought such a diverse academic and professional background, and the diversity of perspectives provided an amazing discussion for the discussion.
What is the biggest lesson you learned about climate change in SIPA?
One of the most compelling courses I take is meeting climate change at all levels of government. It completely changed my view of climate action. I haven’t realized how political climate issues are, and if you don’t understand the political reality that shapes decisions, then all the scientific data in the world is not enough. The course shows me that effective climate action requires scientific knowledge and political awareness.
What is your favorite part of MPA-ESP program?
queue. I love the diversity of our teams – some of my classmates have a background in finance, government and consulting when I came out directly from undergraduates. The program provides the guidance I need and the conversations I have with my peers are invaluable. My favorite part is my workshop. Designing different parts of real-world legislation and planning management with Louise Rosen did help me understand how legislation could be implemented.
Are you going to use the skills you learned at SIPA to promote your career? What climate issues do you want to focus on in the future?
I want to focus on policy analysis, both in the private sector and in the public sector. After gaining some experience, I plan to return home. In the West, sustainability and climate action are in the implementation phase, but when we get home, we haven’t even started completely. It is important for me to take what I have learned here and help drive change in Senegal.
I also want to focus on environmental justice. There are so many problems that frustrate me, but one that stands out is plastic waste. During the research period, I learned how developed countries can ship their waste to poorer countries – an unsettling reality. This inspired me to write an article outlining the appearance of the Global Plastics Treaty.
I am also interested in working on noncolonies in the environment. Many countries most affected by climate change are responsible for the smallest greenhouse gas emissions. However, they are often seen as another stakeholder, not frontline communities with the worst consequences. I want to highlight these differences and promote more just, equitable climate solutions.
