The Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies (NSDS) recently graduated its first cohort, aiming to enhance the country’s diplomatic abilities. Minister Peya Mushelenga praised the school’s integration of theory and practical experience, encouraging adaptability and high academic standards. With a commendable 92% pass rate, NSDS is positioning itself as an elite institution in diplomatic training.
The Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies (NSDS), formed through a collaboration between the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation and the University of Namibia, signifies a progressive stride towards enhancing the country’s diplomatic capacity. On Monday, the NSDS celebrated the graduation of its first cohort, marking an important milestone in strengthening Namibia’s diplomatic community.
During the graduation ceremony, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Peya Mushelenga, emphasized the vital role diplomacy plays in advancing Namibia’s foreign policy and international reputation. He remarked, “Diplomatic academies have played a crucial role in shaping global diplomatic practice for over two centuries,” highlighting the tradition established with the Vienna Diplomatic Academy in 1754.
Minister Mushelenga remarked that these academies equip students with essential negotiation skills and the ability to analyze political and economic contexts effectively. He noted that the NSDS follows this tradition by merging theory with practical application in its curriculum. He praised the school’s method of employing seasoned diplomats as educators, stating, “I have noted that the Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies modules are presented by experienced diplomats… who have also built knowledge and skills over the years.”
The minister highlighted Namibia’s significant involvement in multilateral diplomacy, citing its recent participation in the African Union Peace and Security Council and work done by its UN permanent representative. He pointed out that, “Last year, Namibia’s permanent representative to the United Nations… was the co-facilitator for the negotiations of the Pact of the Future,” underscoring the country’s commitment to sustainable global cooperation.
Additionally, Mushelenga underscored the need for diplomatic training institutions to remain flexible and evolve with the field. He encouraged NSDS to customize its courses for varying stages of diplomatic careers while upholding academic excellence. He also recommended seeking membership in the International Forum on Diplomatic Training to connect with over 60 other countries’ diplomatic academies.
The minister congratulated the graduates on their remarkable achievements, noting a 92% pass rate across the school’s three intakes. “This demonstrates that the Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies is becoming a centre of excellence in diplomatic training,” he stated, comparing their success to that of the renowned Diplo Academy in Malta.
Finally, Mushelenga urged graduates, especially those entering Foreign Service, to implement their training in practice, stating, “There should be an improvement in the quality of your output, symbolising that you are better equipped than before.” The call reflects the expectation that the graduates will significantly contribute to enhancing Namibia’s diplomatic endeavors.
The graduation of the first cohort from the Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies marks a significant advancement in the nation’s diplomatic educational framework. Minister Peya Mushelenga highlighted the importance of equipping future diplomats with the necessary skills for effective international representation. The commendation of high pass rates and emphasis on practical application underscore the potential for the NSDS to emerge as a beacon of excellence in diplomatic training.
Original Source: www.observer24.com.na
