My Experience at the Atlantic International University (AIU)
Stephen Luccars Gumboh

My motivation to pursue a doctorate degree in development studies online arose from the desire to fulfill my long life dream of academic and professional excellence in my field of work. The doctorate was mainly for personal and intellectual development of my potential and opportunities. The aim was to pursue my studies with an in-depth analysis of development issues through various mechanisms to enable me to have a new perspective on how the public sector could effectively utilize the capacities of the private sector to accelerate development and growth in Zambia. This was as attested in the curriculum design that embraced a number of development related research courses with specific reference to Zambia. Nearly all the research courses and project thesis had a specific situation prevalent in Zambia.

The learning experience at AIU made me to feel at ease as it accorded me an opportunity to self- determine my academic direction in my field of study. The guidance received from my Academic Advisors and Tutors encouraged me the most as never was there a time of dull moment through-out the course of study. Promptness in responses to my academic queries eased the burden of anxiety. It was always systems go at every stage of the programme. My conviction is that the newly acquired high level of knowledge and expertise will enable me to contribute effectively to the future generations of learners and in the effective participation in the development and implementation of innovative and implementable developmental programmes and projects in Zambia. The doctorate programme certified my personal commitment and passion to my field of study. It was really a fulfillment of my life-long dream of attaining the highest level of personal development.