Bridging Field Experience and Academia at Harvard University

CMA was honored to contribute to a unique learning program bringing together graduate students from the Harvard Kennedy School, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and Harvard Law School, among others across the Harvard network. The course at the Centre of Competence on Humanitarian Negotiation (CCHN), explores the intersections of public health, humanitarian response, migration, environmental challenges, urban conflict, and human rights.

Representing CMA, co-founders Abdoulaye, Anne, and Radwan shared insights from their fieldwork in Greece, offering students a grounded perspective on the realities of working with displaced populations. Their contribution highlighted the importance of integrating lived experience into academic discussions, particularly in areas where policy and practice must closely align.

“As asylum seekers in some countries in Europe, we do not have access to universities. Participating in such activities allows us to learn and contribute by sharing our personal experience,” noted Abdoulaye, CMA Field Coordinator.

The exchange was met with strong engagement from students. Harun Khan, fa participant in the course for example, reflected on the experience: “It was an absolute pleasure to engage with CMA and gain insight into the complex realities of caring for vulnerable migrants on the ground in Lesvos.”

At CMA, we strongly believe in the value of connecting research with field practice. Opportunities like this foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen collaboration between practitioners and academics, and help shape more informed and effective humanitarian responses. They also inspire the next generation of professionals to engage with the sector in impactful ways.

We are grateful to have been part of this initiative and look forward to continued collaboration that bridges knowledge, experience, and action.