By Malik Mubeen Ali
I come from the village of Bandi Seeran in Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. After completing my Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering at the Pak Austria Fachhochschule Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (PAF-IAST), I was fortunate to receive a fully funded semester exchange opportunity at MCI – The Entrepreneurial School®, Innsbruck, Austria. My time at the Department of Environmental, Process and Energy Engineering (2023–2024) was made possible through the prestigious Ernst Mach Grant, awarded by the Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalization (OeAD).
Academic Pathway and Professional Journey
Currently, I am about to begin a new academic chapter: a fully funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Membrane Engineering for Sustainable Development. My focus will be on membrane technologies for environmental remediation—a direction strongly shaped by my time at MCI and the support of the OeAD.
The education and exposure I gained in Austria played a central role in achieving this next milestone. My professional journey has been deeply motivated by the environmental challenges my home region faces—especially in terms of clean water access and wastewater treatment.
My academic interest in membrane-based water treatment stems from an urgent need: the scarcity of clean drinking water in many regions of Pakistan. Rapidly increasing water contamination, inadequate wastewater management systems, and climate change have put immense pressure on communities like mine. In addition, the high costs of clean water push it beyond the reach of many households, with health implications for thousands.
Through my research, I aim to contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable water solutions that are affordable, efficient, and accessible. At MCI, I was introduced to the research group Membrane Technology and Water Treatment, whose work on drinking water treatment greatly inspired me. Their projects helped clarify the environmental challenges we must tackle—and affirmed my decision to pursue a career in this field.
Beyond the Classroom
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I remained actively engaged beyond academics. I was honored with a merit-based scholarship and placed on the Dean’s List for academic excellence. I also participated in various student-led initiatives such as the Green Youth Movement, launched by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, which aimed to foster youth-led action for sustainable development and environmental awareness.
Moreover, I held active roles in organizations like the Engineering Society and the International Youth Conference, promoting science and innovation. These extracurricular activities helped me grow into a more confident, communicative, and service-oriented individual.
Impact of Studying in Austria
My semester at MCI left a deep and lasting impact—both personally and professionally. I gained a strong academic foundation in topics such as water pollution control and sustainable energy, which align with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) like Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Climate Action. I also visited water treatment facilities and industries, which sharpened my research focus.
Thanks to the OeAD and the Ernst Mach Grant, I was able to access high-quality education, adapt to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), and become part of a vibrant international academic community. These experiences ultimately empowered me to successfully secure the Erasmus Mundus scholarship—one of the most competitive and prestigious awards in Europe.
Cultural Enrichment and Memorable Moments
Studying in Austria was more than an academic experience; it was a cultural transformation. From participating in the Austrian National Day and Christmas markets to preparing traditional dishes like Spätzle and Schnitzel with friends, I embraced the diversity of European life.
I also had the opportunity to travel across several countries, gaining a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, social values, and global cooperation. These experiences significantly enhanced my adaptability, intercultural communication, and openness to new perspectives.
Looking Ahead
With the strong foundation laid by the OeAD and MCI, and now as an Erasmus Mundus scholar, I aim to build a career that integrates academic research, community service, teaching, and global collaboration. My goal is to contribute to real-world solutions in the fields of sustainability, clean water technologies, and environmental innovation.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the OeAD, MCI Innsbruck, and my home institution PAF-IAST in Haripur, Pakistan. I am also deeply thankful to the international offices of both universities and to mentors like Mag. Alexander Dumfort from MCI, who offered invaluable guidance during my stay. The Ernst Mach Grant was instrumental in shaping my academic and professional path, and I wholeheartedly recommend this life-changing opportunity to fellow students across the globe.
