In 2016, the World Trade Organization (WTO) launched the Young Professionals Program, which is designed for young professionals from developing WTO member countries. Participants gain hands-on experience in international trade through placements at the WTO Secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland. This technical assistance program provides graduates with essential skills in international trade, enabling them to contribute to economic development in their home countries. 

As a fellow Gambian, I am especially excited to share this interview with Kutubo Jarju, a 2022 Master’s in Public Policy graduate who became the first Gambian to take part in this highly competitive program. He is one of 19 finalists from diverse countries to be selected out of 5,500 applicants for this cohort.

Congratulations on your selection for the WTO Young Professionals Program! Could you briefly introduce yourself?

My name is Kutubo Jarju. I am a KDIS alumnus with a Master’s in Public Policy. I previously worked for the Ministry of Trade, Regional Integration and Employment in The Gambia for six years, from 2019 to 2024. Currently, I am working for the WTO as a young professional in the Market Access Division. My work focuses on rules of origin and trade facilitation within the context of the WTO.

Rules of origin act as the "passports" of goods, determining their country of origin. Additionally, we delve into more complex issues such as value chains—specifically, assessing what percentage of a product’s value was added in a particular country to qualify for preferential treatment or determine tariff rates, as well as determining the preference utilization of Least Developed Countries.

What led you to the Young Professionals Program?

I am passionate about international trade, which led me to pursue a dual degree in trade; with the most recent being a Master’s in Public Policy from KDIS. My motivation for joining the Young Professionals Program was to be in an environment with top-notch experts in international trade. I also wanted to work at the international level, as I have spent most of my career in government. It was therefore important for me to join an international organization to advance my career.

What would you say motivated your decision to join KDIS?

I joined KDIS because of its strong academic ranking and the opportunity to learn from professors who are experts in trade policy and international trade law. Their practical experience in these areas adds real value to the learning experience. The diversity at KDIS was also a significant factor for me. It brings together people from different backgrounds, which helped me view global issues from various perspectives, especially in the field of international trade.

I can also attest to the diversity at the university, having engaged with individuals from different countries with unique cultures. As an alumnus of KDIS, what opportunities were available to you upon completing your master’s?

KDIS has presented me with many valuable opportunities, one of the most notable being the chance to network with people from diverse backgrounds. The connections I’ve made have broadened my perspective and helped me grow both professionally and personally. In terms of career advancement, earning my master’s degree has been crucial. It directly helped me secure a promotion to Senior Economist at the Ministry of Trade. The degree also opened the door to my current opportunity, as having a master’s  was a requirement for the program. So, absolutely, KDIS has played a significant role in my career growth and has helped me take meaningful steps forward.

Would you say that there is a connection between the courses you took at KDIS and your work at the Market Access Division in the Young Professionals Program?

The courses I took at KDIS are highly relevant to the work I’m doing now at the WTO. For example, I studied trade law, which directly relates to my current role, particularly in the area of rules of origin law. There is a clear connection between the knowledge I gained in my studies and the tasks I’m handling here. The academic foundation I received at KDIS has been invaluable in applying the concepts I learned to trade issues.

Kindly share words of advice to current and prospective KDIS students.

To sum it up in a few words: Network well. Build relationships with your colleagues because the exchange of ideas and information is something you won't fully appreciate until you leave KDIS. Another important piece of advice is visibility. Share your activities, both in the classroom and extracurricular activities, on LinkedIn to build a strong social network.

Thank you for giving me your time. It’s inspiring to see KDIS students taking center stage in making a difference in their fields. As a fellow Gambian, I am very proud of you for representing us. Congratulations once again on your selection for this prestigious program! I hope this story inspires students to apply for such opportunities and positions with international organizations.