Scaling nature-based solutions for climate resilient infrastructure

Role: Former MSc candidate 2023
Affiliation: School of Geography and Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews
Project: Strengthening the uptake of water resource management of small holder farmers within the revision of ECOWAS’s nationally determined contributions and related policies
ORCID|: N/A
Email: usmanummuqulthum@outlook.com

Ummuqulthum graduated with a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development from the School of Geography and Sustainable Development at the University of St. Andrews. She was awarded the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and the University of St. Andrews. Her research interests focus on climate adaptation, socio-ecological systems, complex human-environmental interactions, and various challenges posed by wicked problems in today’s world.

Her thesis delved into freshwater management for smallholder farmers in West Africa, critically analysing the policy and green governance landscape. Before her studies at St. Andrews, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics and Extension from the Federal University of Technology, Minna Nigeria. As a sustainability specialist, Ummuqulthum developed a passion for development while working with rural communities across Africa through projects such as GIZ-CARI and ECOWAS-Nigeria.

During this time, she collaborated closely with farmers, communities, and organizations to achieve NetZero carbon targets, tackle climate-related challenges, minimize environmental impact, and implement strategies for resource conservation. Her work aimed to create a competitive edge and long-term value for a sustainable future. She is currently undertaking her PhD at the University of Georgia.