Short Learning Programmes

Advanced Course in Diplomacy Studies (77116)

Duration: Six Months

Language medium: English

Target group:

Members of legislatures dealing with a country's foreign relations, at national and provincial level.
Government officials dealing with a country's foreign relations at national and sub-national level, eg., provinces, metros, and district municipalities

Admission requirements:

Relevant three-year degree or a relevant Advanced Diploma (NQF level 7) or appropriate practical experience in international affairs

Registration periods:

Semester Registration Periods

Course leader details:

Prof Mbekezeli Mkhize
Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs
PhD
International Relations, Peacebuilding, Conflict Resolution, Democratization and Governance
0123524027
mkhizmc@unisa.ac.za

Programme administrator:

Mr Mohau Manthata
Administrator
Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs
Office no. 03 - 006
Robert Sobukwe Building
012 337 6171
manthh@unisa.ac.za

Purpose statement:

This advanced course responds to the need for:

Skills amongst South African officials, diplomats and experts to pursue and protect the country's national interests (goals and aspirations) as represented/stipulated in the Constitution, National Development Plan and related policies and strategies.

Capacity amongst these officials, diplomats and IR experts to analyse the wide range of threats the nation, region and continent faces in an increasingly complex and unstable world, and their ability to provide decision-makers in government, the state and civil society with relevant and timeous advice and recommendations.

Modules:

ADPDS01 - Diplomatic Practice

Content: Concept of diplomatic practice and Protocol: history and contemporary use Protocol: practical application or role playing Need and/or the importance of etiquette in diplomatic practice

ADPDS02 - South Africa: Democracy and Development

Content: Profile of South Africa History of South Africa: precolonial, colonial, apartheid and post-apartheid Democratization process South Africa's current affairs South Africa's international Relations South Africa's foreign policy; objectives, priorities, and strategies

ADPDS03 - Structured Analytic Techniques for Diplomats

Context: Gathering information Interpretation of information Importance and/or value of adhering to ethics in research Strategic thinking Analytical techniques Report writing