Global Development Studies taught Biljana to navigate complexity and lead with empathy.
Name: Biljana Kostovska
Job: Head of Department, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy in North Macedonia
Study Programme: Global Development Studies
Completed studies at NMBU: 2006
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
My first job was as a project assistant at the local office of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Skopje, from 2002 to 2004. After obtaining a Master's degree from Noragric, I had the opportunity to undertake a traineeship at the European Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development in Brussels. Then, at the beginning of 2008, I joined the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy of the Republic of North Macedonia.
Shortly afterwards, I was sent to Brussels as a Second Secretary and representative of the Mission of the Republic of North Macedonia to the European Union. My scope of work was EU enlargement, agriculture, rural development, and environmental policy. That experience gave me invaluable insight into international diplomacy and the importance of building bridges across cultures.
In 2014, I was promoted to Head of Department for the EU Rural Development Funds for the Republic of North Macedonia. Today, as Head of the Department of Agrochemistry in the Republic of North Macedonia, my focus is on the registration and sustainable use of plant protection products and fertilizers.
What attracted you to your programme at NMBU?
Even at the beginning of my bachelor studies in agricultural engineering, I knew that I wanted to pursue further higher education, a master’s, and my first interest was genetics and microbiology. But after graduation, I started working in FAO and had a glimpse of what development work means.
The Global Development Studies at NMBU had a unique interdisciplinary approach, which allowed me to explore economics, sociology, and environmental issues in one integrated programme. My exchange at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, was transformative — it exposed me to new realities of development work and broadened my perspective on global challenges. I was drawn to NMBU because it offered not just academic knowledge, but a way of thinking that connected theory with practice, and local realities with global contexts.
What was the most memomorable part of your studies?
The first two words my Norwegian friends taught me: “likestilling” and “ikke stress”. The friendships and connections I built remain my most treasured memories. I recall late-night discussions with classmates about their country homes, daily lives, and their traditions, but also, we discussed justice and peace, religions, sustainability, and the future of development. Those conversations shaped my worldview and taught me the value of diverse perspectives.
How was the academic and social environment at NMBU?
The academic environment was excellent — approachable lecturers, knowledgeable mentors, and a culture of curiosity. I felt encouraged to question assumptions and explore new ideas. Socially, it was vibrant and inclusive. Being part of an international student community opened a new world to me, one where learning extended far beyond the classroom. I had the best mentor for my master's thesis, Professor Nadarajah Shanmugaratnam (now Professor Emeritus), and the Professor of Resource Economics and Governance, Pål Vedeld (now Professor Emeritus), whose teaching and personal approach helped me refine and elaborate my writing.
How do you use what you learned at NMBU in your current job?
Every day, I have to use the skills of critical thinking, prioritization, and management that I developed during my studies. More importantly, I learned how to navigate complexity and lead with empathy. Whether my work is dealing with and reporting to the EU institutions or working with national stakeholders and farmers, the ability to listen, analyze and build consensus has been essential.
What are your next career plans?
Looking ahead, my ambition is to contribute to shaping better laws and ensuring safe food systems that protect both farmers and consumers. I want my work to have meaning and impact — not just to produce papers, but to create policies that improve lives. My vision is to serve in roles where I can influence legislation, strengthen sustainability, and build trust between institutions and the people they serve. Ultimately, I aspire to represent my country internationally, but always to advance fairness, safety and dignity in everyday life.
Any advice for future students?
Be brave, seek oportunities and embark on them when they come along. Live abroad, travel, explore new cultures and study, always study what your heart desires. Each experience will test your limits and can expand your perspective and enrich your life. Make friends with people from different backgrounds — those relationships will become your greatest treasures and make you a better person. Most importantly, stay curious and open-hearted; the world is full of opportunities to learn and grow.