I had the pleasure of attending and participating in a week-long summer school on School Artificial Intelligence, Globalisation and New Territorial Divides: theories and applications organised by the Politecnico di Milano. The summer school brought together PhD students, Post-Doctoral Researchers, Professors and economists and editors of journals focused on regional development and inequality. This multi-disciplinary group of researchers at the summer school came from universities across Europe, including France, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Poland and Spain.
The summer school gave a good overview of theories and policies about regional inequalities. These discussions, supported by empirical data from different regions, allowed us to reflect on our projects and experiences. We had the chance to analyze various policies, critique them, and explore what works best in different regions, including ways to improve existing policies. I also had the chance to present my current research project, which was a highlight of the week. Receiving feedback from experts with diverse backgrounds helped me see new perspectives and refine my approach. Their comments and questions were insightful and will be very helpful as I continue working on my paper. 

Meeting with editors from various high-quality peer-reviewed journals offered practical advice on the publication process, peer review, and how to respond to reviewer feedback. This was especially valuable for early-career researchers.

I am thankful for the funding provided by my supervisor, Prof. Javier Revilla Diez, through the Future Rural Africa Project (CRC - C01 Future in Chains Project) and the GSGS Training and Networking Grant, which made it possible for me to take part in this educational summer school. The knowledge I gained and the new contacts I made during the week will definitely help me as I develop my paper for publication and continue building my academic career.

Justina Tuulikefo Nangolo
PhD student
Institute of Geography
PhD project: Development Corridors in Southern Africa: Navigating Unfulfilled Visions and Complex Realities in WBNLDC (Oral Presentation)