by Ni Ketut Lestari
My name is Ni Ketut Lestari, a medical doctor from Bali, Indonesia, with 10 years of experience in HIV prevention, treatment, and research. In 2023, I was fortunate to receive support from the Marinus Plantema Foundation to pursue my Master of Science in International Health at the KIT Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam. This experience not only advanced my academic career but also shaped my perspective on global health challenges.
During my time at KIT, I gained not only advanced academic knowledge but also invaluable life lessons. The first module I took was the Netherlands Course on Global Health and Tropical Medicine (NTC), and I must admit, it was one of the most challenging parts of my journey. Having just arrived in Amsterdam, I was still adjusting to my new environment, but with the support from my academic advisor, I managed to get through it. During the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) module, I had the unique experience of visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam, which provided real-world insight into the complexities of sexual health. The courses on Digital Health and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were particularly fascinating, and I am proud to have received excellent marks for these courses.
One of the most inspiring experiences was a study trip to the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva. It gave me the chance to engage with global health experts and witness firsthand how international health policies are shaped and their impact on global health initiatives.
The highlight of my academic journey was my thesis research, titled A Socio-Ecological View of Factors Influencing ART Adherence Among Women Living with HIV in Bali, Indonesia. Conducting this research was a transformative experience as it combined a literature review with qualitative research. I delved into the social and structural factors affecting women’s adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and gained valuable insights that will inform my future work in HIV care. I was especially grateful to receive praise from my examiners during my thesis defence, which affirmed the significance of my research. Completing my master’s in just one year was a proud moment, and I feel incredibly fortunate for the support that made it possible.
Looking back, I can truly appreciate how much I have grown, both personally and professionally. The knowledge and skills I gained at KIT have prepared me to make a meaningful contribution to HIV prevention, treatment, and research in Indonesia. As I return to my home country, I am eager to apply everything I have learned to improve healthcare
access and outcomes for vulnerable populations. I will always be grateful for this life-changing opportunity.
Diploma Presentation