Keya Debnath is a second-year Master of Public Policy student at the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy, specializing in data analytics, finance and policy, and energy and environmental policy. Originally from Bangladesh, Keya brings 12 years of policy-level experience in the Bangladesh government and state banks. Having witnessed the impacts of climate change—such as flash floods and river erosion—she is deeply committed to climate diplomacy, climate finance, and sustainable development. Her work has focused on climate refugee rehabilitation and flood-induced family support in Bangladesh. Keya aspires to bridge policy and finance to drive impactful environmental solutions on a global scale.
She attended COP 29 as part of the UChicago graduate delegation.
“COP 29 was an incredible opportunity to merge my real-life experiences, academic knowledge, and perspectives on global climate challenges. Observing events where world leaders from nearly 200 countries came together under one umbrella to address the transition to net-zero and reduce carbon dioxide emissions was truly inspiring. Leaders, researchers, observers, and academics all contributed their unique perspectives at the negotiation tables, striving to tackle these pressing issues. Attending this event has enhanced my understanding of international collaboration and will help me connect the dots between research and real-life applications in climate sustainability.”