Apekshya Dhungel was studying landscape architecture in Freising, Germany when Nepal fell victim to a major earthquake in 2015. Once she had graduated, she returned to her home city of Kathmandu to support the reconstruction efforts with her expertise. Since then, Apekshya has been working for an architecture firm. Her area of expertise? Open spaces for a better quality of life in large cities – and for protection against natural disasters.
For example, people can spend time together in parks. In the event of an earthquake or another type of natural disaster, however, these open spaces have another key function: ‘People can also be provided with food, drinking water and medication here,’ says the young architect. ‘They can also find out about the latest developments and feel as though they are not alone.’
The Centre for International Migration and Development (CIM) supported Apekshya Dhungel in relocating from Freising to Kathmandu. The landscape architect with a German Master’s degree is one of around 15,000 experts whom the CIM has already helped return to their home countries since 1980. The centre is a joint venture between the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the German Federal Employment Agency’s International Placement Services.
One of CIM’s aims is to assist experts and managers in bringing about change in their home countries by using their expertise and contacts in Germany. Migration is thus contributing to sustainable global development while also building bridges between Germany and the countries it works in. Apekshya Dhungel is the perfect example of this.
Last updated: August 2018
Apekshya Dhungel studied Landscape Architecture at the University of Freising. ‘I can pass on all my knowledge to others here too.’
Following the massive earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015, Apekshya Dhungel wanted to return to her home country. She now works in an architecture firm in Kathmandu.
‘My expertise as an architect lies in planning open spaces. That means open-air places where people can spend time with each other, such as squares or parks.’
Her approach to architecture: ‘When planning a new project, I always involve the people it will actually affect.’