Admission to the WFP UNV Post Through HPC Programs!
A participant who completed both the HPC Peacebuilding Introductory School and the HPC Problem Analysis and Activity Planning Workshop has successfully secured a UNV post with WFP Benin through an open application process and has already taken up the role! This remarkable achievement is being celebrated by HPC. Despite a busy schedule before starting the position, the individual kindly shared their reflections on the courses they took. (December 2024)
Reflections on the HPC Peacebuilding Introductory School
(By Atsutomo Noto)
I aspire to build a career in international organizations, focusing on human rights, humanitarian assistance, and development. At the time of taking the course, I was employed at a private development consulting firm. Until attending this school, I hadn’t encountered an opportunity in Japan where anyone genuinely committed could systematically learn about international peacebuilding through lectures and absorb information to advance their international careers. The school’s curriculum, which included group work on international affairs, development aid, and humanitarian assistance, resonated strongly with my goals. I remember eagerly applying as soon as I learned about the program. The classes offered invaluable insights tailored to those seriously pursuing careers in international organizations. Topics covered included: The turbulent international landscape post-Cold War (including armed
conflicts) and an overview of United Nations peace activities. The history and structure of aid in the field of international
development, as well as current challenges. Humanitarian assistance, focusing on principles, major organizations,
their functions, and specific operations, utilizing evidence from international think tanks (e.g., SIPRI, International Peace Institute),
UN reports, UNDP materials, and OECD statistics. Through the program, I gained a comprehensive understanding of global
peacebuilding efforts, development aid, humanitarian principles, and the operational functions of UN organizations. The group work sessions allowed participants with diverse professional and academic backgrounds to share their career visions while discussing contemporary global challenges. This experience profoundly expanded my understanding of the various fields of peacebuilding, development, and humanitarian assistance. It also helped me solidify my career aspirations by offering a platform to exchange and refine ideas. I am deeply grateful to Professor Shinoda, the HPC team, and my fellow participants for this invaluable opportunity,
which will continue to guide my future endeavors.
Reflections on the HPC Problem Analysis and Activity Planning Workshop
(By Atsutomo Noto)
I joined the HPC Problem Analysis and Activity Planning Workshop for two primary reasons:
To gain concentrated knowledge of HPC’s “problem analysis and activity planning” programs, which form the core of its primary courses, in a three-day intensive format. To understand how the methodology of problem analysis and activity planning, often applied in conflict and international affairs, differs from the PCM (Project Cycle Management) framework commonly used in
development aid—and how both could be integrated into my work as a development consultant. During the first day, we delved into conflict analysis methodologies and applied them to a case study of the Tigray conflict in Ethiopia, which reached a ceasefire agreement in November 2022. Using tools like stakeholder analysis, we mapped the conflict’s complexities using logical frameworks and uncovered its root causes. On the second day, we focused on problem and objective analyses, building logical trees to explore pathways for conflict resolution. Finally, on the third day, we used Logical Frameworks (Logframes) to design specific projects aimed at resolving the conflict, summarizing them in detailed project outlines. This workshop exceeded my expectations, offering a hands-on approach to mastering analytical and planning methods used in international organizations. The logical thinking and structured frameworks, such as MECE, learned during the course, are universally applicable—not just for a career in international organizations but also for everyday problem-solving and my current work in development consulting. The diverse participants—ranging from legal experts to public health professionals, government officials, and NGO staff—brought unique perspectives and expertise. Collaborating with them broadened my understanding of issues and enhanced my practical skills in synthesizing and presenting ideas.
I am especially grateful to Professors Shinoda and Uesugi for their insightful explanations and follow-ups based on their rich experience. Their guidance brought clarity to complex concepts that cannot be gleaned from books alone. Lastly, I deeply appreciate the bonds formed with fellow participants who share a passion for international cooperation, as well as the tireless support of the HPC team in facilitating this enriching three-day experience.