Diplomatic studies certificate programme launched

TDT | Manama

The first Certificate in Diplomatic Studies programme by Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Academy for Diplomatic Studies was launched yesterday evening. The online nine-week programme is for 34 employees from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other government entities in Bahrain.

Leading specialists, academics and diplomatic figures from Bahrain and abroad will provide 65 virtual interactive lectures and intensive workshops in politics, diplomacy and international affairs. The programme is consistent with the contemporary international trend of regional and international academic institutions to continue to provide and transfer knowledge through modern communication tools.

It is also in harmony with the goals of the academy that seeks to highlight the concept of diplomacy as an effective tool in the advancement of societies and the definition of diplomatic heritage of Bahrain under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

“The Academy begins today a new stage in the world of virtual training, through the Certificate in Diplomatic Studies that comes within a package of online programmes and lectures,” said the academy’s executive director Dr. Shaikha Muneera bint Khalifa Al Khalifa.

“It also brings the concept of diplomacy closer to the various components of society as one of the soft powers affecting the international scene.” The academy has been in operation since the transformation to the digital world, and according to the directives of Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani to redesign specialised programmes and courses to suit the requirements of the current situation, she added.

“We have received hundreds of requests to participate in the programme as soon as it was announced, which confirms the interest of the community and its awareness of the importance of diplomacy,” Dr. Shaikha Muneera added. “This also reflects the extent of its significance as a vital tool in various sectors in the Kingdom.”

The Certificate in Diplomatic Studies programme runs until August 6. It will provide successful participants with the basic skills and knowledge related to the concept of Bahraini and international diplomacy.