Hussaini Shan-e-Abbas is a second-year student in the Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) Program at Harvard Kennedy School. He was accepted into the Growth Lab’s 2024 Summer Internship program and contributed to the ongoing project with Azerbaijan.
Why did you apply to the Growth Lab Summer Internship?
I applied to the Growth Lab Summer Internship to gain my first research experience and to apply the skills I developed during my first year in the MPA/ID program. I was particularly drawn to the Lab’s commitment to evidence-based, applied research and policymaking. My interest in macroeconomics aligned perfectly with the scope of the Azerbaijan project, especially in understanding how an oil-dependent economy can transition towards sustainable economic diversification. Lastly, the opportunity to spend a fully-funded summer in the beautiful country of Azerbaijan, immerse myself in its culture, and interact with local people was incredibly appealing.
What did you work on?
A very interesting work stream within the Azerbaijan project pertained to subnational analysis that sought to understand why economic opportunities across the country are not uniform. My work involved evaluating the regions of Nagorno-Karabakh and East Zangezur to assess the regional constraints and growth potential. I analyzed the current government reconstruction efforts, the available productive assets, and the challenges associated with the redevelopment process. To inform my analysis, I examined case studies of other conflict-ridden regions that achieved economic development post-conflict. Based on this analysis, I helped develop recommendations for the sustainable development of these regions. This exercise also enabled me to apply my learnings, particularly the policy trinity i.e., solutions to be technically correct, politically supportable, and administratively feasible.
In what ways were you challenged?
The internship offered a blend of intellectual and professional challenges. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the various work streams, but by breaking the project into manageable parts, I could focus my efforts effectively. Tackling a broad challenge like developing fragile regions required transforming complex issues into actionable research areas. My interactions with stakeholders and colleagues and my in-depth literature review highlighted the complexity of these issues, with no easy answers to these questions. However, I was able to apply many of the skills I gained during my first year in the MPA/ID program. This was also my first experience in a research role, which was challenging but deeply rewarding.
What was your most exciting/surprising experience?
One of the most exciting aspects of my internship was engaging with key stakeholders, including government ministries, agencies, and think tanks. These interactions not only enriched my research but also expanded my network. A highlight was briefing the Advisor to the Minister of Economy on our ongoing work and findings, as well as meeting with the Special Advisor to the President for the Nagorno-Karabakh region, who provided invaluable insights. What surprised me the most was how united the people of Azerbaijan are. Their pride in their country and reverence for their leadership stood in stark contrast to the societal divisions I’ve observed in Pakistan. This sense of unity was truly remarkable and added a deeper layer to my understanding of the region.
What advice would you give to future interns?
I recommend being proactive in seeking clarity about the project’s scope and your role. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the complexity and uncertainty of the work. Developing strong time management skills and understanding what’s achievable within a 10-week period can help you pace and organize your tasks effectively. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—your colleagues at the Lab are incredibly supportive and always willing to assist. Additionally, take the opportunity to learn beyond the internship itself. I explored Baku and other parts of Azerbaijan, and my interactions with the locals not only enriched my experience but also deepened my research insights. This is a unique chance to live in and explore another culture—make the most of it!
What’s next for you?
As I begin my final year of the MPA/ID program at Harvard Kennedy School, I am eager to continue exploring the intersection of economic development and data-driven policymaking. My experience with the Growth Lab has significantly enriched my understanding of these areas, and I am grateful for the invaluable support and insights from my colleagues. Looking ahead, I am excited to apply these learnings in future projects and opportunities, and to further contribute to impactful policy solutions.
