Exactly 2 years and 15 days since its launch in 2023, The Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies (NSDS) on 10 March 2025 marked a historic milestone as it celebrated the certification of its first-ever cohort, awarding 98 students Level 7 certificates in diplomatic studies.
This momentous occasion signifies Namibia’s commitment to equipping professionals with the expertise needed to navigate complex global relations. What’s unique about these short courses is the fact that they were delivered by seconded staff from the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, ensuring students got first hand experience in the following credit-bearing courses:
- International Relations
- Namibia International Relations and Cooperation Policy
- Management of International Relations and Cooperation
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Namibia, Professor Kenneth Matengu, emphasised the school’s specialized approach to diplomatic education, ensuring graduates become experts in specific regions rather than generalists.
“This school is set up in such a way, that people will graduate on the basis of constituency expertise. In other words, we will not just graduate people who are generalists, but specialists whether in Europe, Asia, North or South America, or Africa.”
Diplomacy is different from other professions, it is like gardening – you cultivate relationships at every opportunity, whether over dinner, tea, or on a plane. Today, we are celebrating a new cohort of graduates who have the skill, qualification, and experience to represent Namibia with competency,” Prof. Matengu remarked.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Hon Dr. Peya Mushelenga, highlighted the importance of blending theory with diplomatic practice to enhance Namibia’s global engagement.
“While universities offer general courses, largely based on theoretical foundations, diplomatic academies provide specialized training where postgraduates are exposed to both theory and practice of diplomacy. In coming years, I hope to see experienced diplomats and former heads of missions contributing to the curriculum to ensure students gain first-hand insights into the realities of international diplomacy,” Minister Mushelenga stated.
This awarding marks a crucial step towards building a skilled diplomatic corps capable of addressing global challenges, fostering international cooperation, and positioning Namibia strategically in foreign affairs. As these 98 graduates embark on their diplomatic careers, their expertise will shape Namibia’s role in international relations for years to come.
