From June 1–6, 2025, the Institute of Development Research and Development Policy (IEE) at Ruhr University Bochum hosted the 25th Anniversary MADM Alumni Conference, marking a very special milestone in the history of the Master of Arts in Development Management (MADM) programme.
Under the theme: “Practitioners’ Perspectives on the Sustainable Development Goals: Working towards Results,” this anniversary event was far more than an academic conference. It was a heartfelt celebration of 25 years of building a truly global community of development professionals, researchers, and friends.
Over the course of the week, almost 100 participants joined the official celebration, including alumni, current students, former staff members, IEE colleagues, and guests who feel connected to the programme. 30 alumni were supported by the DAAD to travel to Bochum, but the workshops and discussions brought together an even wider circle of participants, reflecting the strength and reach of the MADM network.
The idea for this conference came from members of the very first MADM cohort, who helped shape the content and spirit of the event. Their vision ensured that the conference was firmly rooted in the real-world perspectives and experience of practitioners, addressing key questions about the SDGs and the future of development cooperation through expert talks, panel discussions, and highly interactive workshops.
The conference programme built on ongoing global debates about the future of the SDGs and the changing landscape of development cooperation. The workshops on the second day explored the following themes in depth:
1. Working towards results: Measuring SDG progress
2. The relevance of SDGs in development practice
3. Towards a post-2030 framework for sustainable development
Led by experienced MADM alumni and supported by IEE staff, these workshops were designed to be practical, reflective, and solution-oriented.
On the third day, the conference also turned inward to reflect on the evolution of the MADM programme itself. Alumni and staff looked back at how the programme has grown and adapted over 25 years and worked together on ideas and recommendations for its future.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of a special 25-year anniversary newsletter, an inspiring 170-page collection of stories, reflections, and photos contributed by alumni from all over the world. It served as a testament to the deep sense of community and shared mission that unites MADM graduates across generations.
The conference also prioritized connection and networking, with a Career Day and a Networking Day designed to bring together experienced and younger alumni, current students, and invited experts. Participants also enjoyed a cultural excursion to the German Mining Museum in Bochum, celebrating the local heritage that has long shaped the university’s identity.
The official anniversary event was made even more special with warm greetings from RUB Rector Prof. Dr. Dr. Martin Paul and DAAD representatives, recognizing the importance of this community and the impact MADM graduates are having around the world.
Today, the MADM programme counts over 360 alumni from 81 countries, around 70% of whom received scholarships. This conference was not only a celebration of the past 25 years, but also a powerful commitment to the future: to learning from one another, supporting each other in challenging times, and advancing sustainable development around the world.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this anniversary such a memorable event. We look forward to many more years of collaboration, friendship, and shared purpose in the wonderful global MADM community.