Political Science MA Degree Personal Purpose Statement

Political Science MA Degree Personal Purpose Statement

Being born and raised in Ghana, I am keenly aware that corruption is a persistent issue in the governance of my nation and many others. My decision to pursue a bachelor's degree in politics was motivated by the hope of contributing to resolving this problem. I believe that innovative policy development and implementation, along with e-governance, can help reduce opportunities for corruption and identify and apply 'best practices' across all levels of government in various countries. While I understand that I cannot address deep-rooted and longstanding issues alone, nor will they be resolved swiftly, I am convinced that the more qualified and dedicated individuals who work towards these goals, the more likely and quickly they will be achieved. I aspire to be one of those individuals, which is why I am eager to continue my education in Political Science by pursuing a master's degree at XXXX University.

I hold a bachelor's degree in political studies from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. During my university breaks, I interned in the Public Relations Department of the Municipal Assembly in Tema. This experience provided me with a foundational understanding of the procedures and protocols involved in policy and project decision-making and implementation at the municipal level. I also became aware of the limitations of unsophisticated IT systems and their underutilization due to a lack of expertise, a situation common at both local and national levels.

While pursuing my undergraduate studies, I volunteered to educate market women in Kumasi about politics. We informed them about their civil rights, the importance of voting, and how they could challenge government decisions. This was a highly rewarding experience that increased local awareness about the need for politicians to consider the views of ordinary people if they wish to succeed.

I am fascinated by the pioneering advancements in Estonia and its innovative use of IT solutions in governmental functions. The results have been impressive, especially for a nation that started with a very basic and limited IT infrastructure. I see Estonia’s rapid progress as a model for many countries, particularly in Africa. I hope to visit the country someday to observe their systems in action. As pioneers, Estonia will have made mistakes along the way, which will also provide valuable lessons for countries currently introducing or expanding e-governance.

I look forward to a future where ordinary citizens can access real-time information about government activities and expenditures and conduct transactions with government departments from home at their convenience rather than that of government employees. I see e-governance as a means to promote transparency and honesty in government. I especially hope to see robust and honest computerized voting systems that eliminate the need for long queues and prevent voters from being denied their rights due to technicalities.

I recognize the significant advantages of using computer modeling to evaluate the outcomes of competing policies, assisting governments in making well-informed decisions and determining the best ways to implement them. The more these proven models exist, the more they can be adapted to local conditions and applied elsewhere. Governments could also benefit from quickly and easily gathering public opinion on competing policies and the best methods for implementing those chosen.

Some vested interests will strongly oppose e-governance, especially in the most corrupt nations, because it inherently promotes transparency and limits opportunities for power abuse and corruption. However, I firmly believe that the increasing flow of information and opinion, along with more IT-aware citizens, will eventually create such an appreciation for the advantages of e-governance that its use will be demanded.

Politics is my central passion, and I read extensively on the subject. Naturally, I have a particular interest in Africa and Europe, but I am also developing an interest in the Middle East due to the complex political situations and current and potential conflicts in the region.

With a relevant bachelor's degree, a genuine passion for politics and government, and a commitment to the benefits of e-governance, I am a dedicated and diligent individual. I assure the reader that I will apply myself with exceptional enthusiasm to this course of study for my own benefit and, hopefully, for the benefit of many others in my future career.

Political Science MA Degree Personal Purpose Statement