Latifa Salangi seeks global sustainable policies in her PhD research
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EmailLatifa Salangi is pursuing her PhD exploring international development policies in the Department of Community Sustainability, driven by her experience with how conflict, poverty, and environmental damage affected communities.
Growing up seeing the consequences of international policy- conflict, poverty, and environmental damages- in her home country of Afghanistan, Latifa Salangi became committed to exploring international development and environmental policy. Latifa chose to pursue her PhD here in the Department of Community Sustainability at Michigan State University because of the interdisciplinary approach scholars take in the program, combining insights from agriculture, natural resources, and social sciences in her own work. Latifa hopes to create global sustainable solutions by exploring how human well-being, environmental sustainability, and development relate to each other. Interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Hometown: Kabul, Afghanistan
Degree pursuing: PhD
Advisor: Adam Zwickle
Expected graduation date: 2028
Research focus: International development and environmental policies
What inspired your interest in your research?
Being from a country like Afghanistan, I saw how conflict, poverty, and environmental damage affect communities. These experiences triggered my interest in international development and environmental science. I realized that finding sustainable solutions is key to making positive change in Afghanistan and the world. My studies in agricultural economics, agronomy, and horticulture, and my work experience with different development organizations like USAID, strengthened my focus on this field.
Can you tell us a little bit about why your research is an important area of exploration?
My research interest is to look at how international development policies connect with environmental sustainability. I focus on empowering community-led initiatives in developing countries because this can improve policies and practices. And I would love to do a comparative study of a developed and an underdeveloped country in this context. As a result, it can help millions of people around the world. I explore how human well-being, environmental sustainability, and development relate to each other. My goal is to help create better and more sustainable solutions.
Why did you choose to study at CSUS?
Because the program's interdisciplinary approach, which combines insights from agriculture, natural resources, and social sciences, resonated with me and my educational background. Furthermore, MSU's strong connections with international organizations and its commitment to global engagement made it an ideal choice for me, particularly because I was linked to MSU through organizations like USAID.
What has been one of your best experiences within the program so far?
One of the best parts of my experience in the Community Sustainability program has been working with a fantastic group of scholars, practitioners, and students who care about making a positive impact. The program focuses on collaboration, support, and learning from different fields. This creates an exciting and supportive atmosphere that helps everyone grow and innovate.
What do you want others to know about this program?
The Community Sustainability program at MSU offers a unique and valuable educational experience. It combines different fields of study and focuses on real-world applications and community involvement. This program is a great choice for anyone interested in creating sustainable solutions to global challenges.
Any thoughts or advice for current students?
My advice to current students is to stay curious, and motivated and ask questions without fear. View challenges as chances to grow and learn. Build strong relationships with your peers, mentors, and community partners. These connections will make you inspiration during your academic and professional journey. and finally, never give up, follow your dreams. Remember nothing is impossible, but everything is possible if you have enough commitment and passion.
What are your future plans?
After I finish my PhD, I want to work in academia. My goals are to teach, do research, and mentor students in international development and sustainability. As the first person in my family to earn a PhD, I feel proud to open doors for future generations. I hope to encourage others, especially women from Afghanistan and other underrepresented groups, to follow their dreams and pursue excellence.
What’s your favorite thing about MSU?
After leaving Afghanistan, I found my sense of comfort and belonging at MSU. The people here—my colleagues, mentors, and friends have been very supportive and welcoming. They treat me like family, and I am grateful for that. MSU has become my second home, and I am proud to be part of the Spartan community.
