Friday, July 17th, 2009
TDLC Staffer Reports On MFTOT6
Reporting by TDLC Staffer Mirei Nishimura
As a new member of TDLC, I learned that TDLC offers a blended-learning course on microfinance. My first contact with the concept of microfinance was in the late 1990’s while studying International Relations, and I was intrigued by and attracted to the empowerment potential of such financial services. My interest in microfinance did not bloom into a professional career, but it’s been maintained throughout my life after graduation.
My gut reaction to the MFTOT course offering was; “This is great! We can actually learn about microfinance in English, right here in Tokyo, have international colleagues through the video conference connection, AND get certified for it!”
After I joined TDLC, in one of my casual conversations with my boss, I revealed my personal interest in microfinance, and to my surprise, he replied, “Well, if you’re interested in micro-finance, then, you should enroll yourself in the MFTOT course!”
So, this is how I came to join the MFTOT course.
Mirei Nishimura joins group discussions during the first videoconference for MFTOT6 in Tokyo July 16, 2009. TDLC/KK
Yesterday, July 16, 2009 was the first MFTOT video conference class. It was very exciting to be back in a “classroom”-like environment! The diversity of the participants was impressive; there was quite a good mix of young, fresh-out-of-college types, mid-career professionals, and mature-age students. Some have careers in the private sector and others are in the middle of a career change. Most are professionals in the field of development and want to apply the concept of microfinance to their professional activities. What a great networking opportunity for people with a keen interest in microfinance!
After opening words, microfinance expert Stuart Rutherford shared his experiences in running SafeSave, a financial services cooperative in Bangladesh, and held a Q&A session with all students connected via VC; Tokyo, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, and Afghanistan.
To tell the truth, I’d never heard of SafeSave before, so Mr. Rutherford’s talk of his pilot project was a one-of-a-kind, rewarding and eye-opening experience; I realized that my knowledge of “microfinance” was a bit outdated (all the more reason to take the MFTOT course!).
The other students in remote locations related his lecture to their own country experiences. Had it not been for the live VC connection, I would not have had the chance to hear their points of view.
All in all, the afternoon was intellectually stimulating; exactly what I was craving!
For more text and pictures on the MFTOT kick-off, please read our Feature on the launch of MFTOT 6.
