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ETIA Alumnus Spotlight – Bridging Technology and Global Policy

ETIA alumnus Binnu Jacob Eapen shows how environmental technology and international affairs unite in the MSc ETIA – to tackle climate change.

[Translate to English:] Binnu Jacob Eapen

Binnu Jacob Eapen knew early on that technical knowledge alone would not be enough to solve the major challenges of our time. Climate change, sustainable development, and international politics demand an interdisciplinary approach – and in the MSc Environmental Technology and International Affairs (ETIA) program, he found the perfect fit.

From Engineer to Bridge-Builder between Technology and Diplomacy

With a background in engineering, Binnu initially felt at home in the world of technology. Yet he soon realized: global crises such as climate change cannot be solved by technology alone.

His decision to join ETIA was therefore a turning point:

“The combination of environmental technology and international politics is a real game-changer. It opens up new perspectives to address complex global challenges effectively.”

A Program that Broadens Horizons

The first year at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna was challenging for Binnu. Politics, law, and economics – entirely new disciplines for him. But precisely this challenge created the program’s unique value:

  • Understanding the political dimensions of international climate agreements
  • Applying the legal foundations of sustainable development
  • Analyzing economic mechanisms in the interplay between technology and markets

In the second year at TU Wien, he deepened his expertise in environmental technologies – from energy systems to waste and resource management. The result was a comprehensive, interdisciplinary perspective that he today describes as “decisive for my professional future.”

Knowledge that Creates Responsibility

Perhaps the most lasting impact was the realization that knowledge is inseparable from responsibility:

“ETIA showed me how important it is to connect technology and politics. Only then can we remain capable of action as a society and develop sustainable solutions.”

Today, Binnu uses this expertise to build bridges at the intersection of technology, politics, and sustainability – exactly what the program is designed to achieve.

His Advice for Future ETIA Students

“This program is a rewarding choice for anyone who wants to play an active role in fighting climate change and advancing sustainable development. Be open to new perspectives – it will change the way you see the world.”

MSc ETIA Facts at a Glance

  • Location: Vienna (Diplomatic Academy of Vienna & TU Wien)
  • Duration: 4 semesters (full-time, Master of Science)
  • Language: English
  • Degree: MSc (TU Wien & DA Vienna)
  • Program Directors: Prof. Johann Fellner (TU Wien), Prof. Holger Hestermeyer (DA Vienna)
  • Tuition Fee: EUR 15,500 for the 2nd academic year at TU Wien
  • Program Start: September 22, 2025
  • Application: Still open – contact us at etia@tuwien.ac.at