Alumni Feature | Yashas C Gowda, Master’s in Public Policy ‘17

Technology was always an area of interest for Yashas, who then aspired to leverage his experience to influence technology policies. After completing his Bachelors of Engineering in Electronics, he went on to work as R&D Engineer at Nokia Networks. During this time, he realised that mere development of technology will not have an impact on society and decided to understand the factors outside labs that influence the penetration of technology. He says, “Before MPP, my understanding of the issues was just based on superficial facts, empathy and sympathy, without the knowledge of the underlying cause and effect. The course helped me build and strengthen the perspectives, thus preparing me for the entry to the world of politics.

Course content, classroom discussions, assignments and internships became the foundation & pillars for my current career path as political consultant.” He is currently working as Public Policy and Communications Strategist at Office of Leader of Opposition in Karnataka, where his responsibilities include reviewing government policies, drafting policy feedback, analysing the impact of current events and strategizing effective communication plan. He also played an important role in designing election campaigns for Indian National Congress during 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections. His research and recommendations, through his office, have sensitised media and public about various issues, thereby influencing government decisions. Yashas shares that, “Multidisciplinary approach to public policy during MPP, has helped me to handle diverse responsibilities as political consultant. The depth and rigour of MPP trained me to face any challenge and to work with sharp deadlines.” He feels that most of the courses had an impact during his journey in the policy domain. He continues by saying, “Introduction to Law and Regulatory Governance helped me to understand judgements, acts and other government orders. Constitutionalism, Rights and Institutions course nudged me to align my views & suggestions with the ideals of inclusive & democratic India. Public Finance and economics courses gave me an edge to analyse budget documents and macro issues of development. IPP and PAC courses equipped me with skills to design effective campaigns and to draft convincing communication plans. Two years at NLSIU will have a great impact on me forever.”