Africa-Press – Botswana. In a step towards the establishment of a dedicated Diplomacy Institute, the University of Botswana (UB) and the Ministry of International Relations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance capacity building in the field of diplomacy.
Marking the formalisation of a collaborative partnership aimed at strengthening Botswana’s diplomatic capabilities in Gaborone recently, acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of International Relations, Ms Lorato Plaatjee expressed optimism about the partnership.
She highlighted that through the collaboration, the ministry hopes to build a local Diplomacy Institute tailored to Botswana’s unique needs and national interests while also attracting regional participants.
“We trust that by working together with renowned Diplomatic Institutes, we can create a curriculum that is both relevant to Botswana’s domestic requirements and be able to meet the demands of an increased interconnected world. The course will be designed to ensure that our diplomats are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s ever-evolving diplomatic landscape.” Ms Plaatjie said.
She emphasised the significant changes being undergone by diplomacy in the 21st century, particularly the rise of digitalisation and the growing influence of public diplomacy through social media.
She noted that diplomats today must navigate new platforms of communication in foreign policy, promote the country’s cultural and economic interest, and engage with both domestic and foreign publics.
She stressed the importance of adapting to those changes to ensure that Botswana’s diplomats were prepared to engage with their counterparts confidently and effectively.
“Digital diplomacy, social media platforms, and shifts in geopolitics require a new approach to diplomacy,” Ms Plaatjie pointed out.
She said the courses developed through the partnership should ensure that the modern Motswana diplomat could represent the country with skill and unrestrained confidence. Ms Plaatjie noted that Botswana’s foreign policy interests had become prominent in recent years, underscoring the need for consistent engagement and a clearer understanding of the country’s positions on the global agenda issue.
The Head of Department Political and Administrative Studies at UB, Dr Kebapetse Lotshwao outlined that the cooperation would include not only training and capacity building in the field of diplomacy and international relations, but also the development of policy analysis and research capacity. He said there would also be a focus on peacekeeping and conflict resolution, sharing of experiences pertaining to diplomacy and international relations.
Dr Lotshwao said the MoU signified the formalisation of a long-standing relationship between the UB and the Ministry of International Relations as evidenced by joint public lectures and exchange of information paving the way for a more structured extensive partnership.
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