17 August 2015
•Aims to empower participants with specialised diplomatic learning programmes that prepare next generation of UAE diplomatic corps

•International experts to lead 9-month educational programme with a focus on advanced theory and hands-on practical sessions

Abu Dhabi - The Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA) will receive the first batch of students for its Post Graduate Diploma programme in UAE Diplomacy and International Relations in September this year. The nine-month programme aims to nurture the next generation of Emirati diplomats through a comprehensive educational curriculum that focuses on both advanced theory and hands-on practical sessions.

EDA has been providing specialised short-term training courses on diverse areas of diplomacy since June 2015. The new Post Graduate Diploma course, commencing in September, is the first full-fledged academic programme that has gained positive response from Emirati youth who aspire to serve the nation in various diplomatic roles.

EDA has now established its credentials as an academic and scientific centre that works to fulfil the vision of the UAE leadership to strengthen the skills of Emirati youth. It is the only institution of its kind in the country that emphasises on educational programmes for shaping the new generation of UAE career diplomats. EDA is billed to be a centre of excellence in advanced studies and in-depth research in diplomatic programmes.

Mariam Al Mahmoud, Director of Executive Education at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy, said: "EDA is now entering a new phase of its growth and has defined its credentials in providing advanced and scientific knowledge in diplomatic education. We have an accomplished faculty of prominent experts who provide our students with theoretical and practical knowledge that adds significant value in shaping their careers as diplomats."

Ms. Al Mahmoud added that EDA is keen to developing the curriculum and executive training programmes to meet the requirements of diplomatic careers as well as to help future Emirati diplomats to acquire all the skills that assist them. "Our vision is to be a leading academic centre in the development of diplomatic capacity and intellectual leadership among Emirati youth."

The Post Graduate Diplomat programme focuses on specialised areas that are aligned with the needs of the UAE. These include: UAE Interests and National Security Policy, UAE History and Culture, International Relations and Diplomacy, Modern History and Contemporary Politics of the Middle East, International Law & International Organisations and International Economics, among others.

It also covers  Energy and Climate Change, UAE Government Excellence, International Conflict and Cooperation, Bilateral and Multilateral Negotiation, Protocol, Etiquette and Communication, Country Analysis and Diplomatic Report Writing, beside strengthening the skills of the students in a third language.

EDA is working on implementing the best academic standards to provide students with diplomatic skills, the ability and the confidence to represent the UAE actively in all international events. EDA is committed to promoting research and building diplomatic possibilities in line with the foreign policy objectives of the UAE.

-Ends-

About Emirates Diplomatic Academy
The Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA) was established by Cabinet Decree No. 29 of the year 2014, as a pioneering integrated academic and research centre dedicated to strengthening the UAE national's foreign policy knowledge.

EDA's Board of Trustees includes distinguished leaders from government, academia and industry. The Board of Trustees ensures that the Academy adheres to the purposes for which it was created and that the Academy's integrity and financial resources are preserved for its current and future objectives.

EDA aims to build a broad knowledge base in the field of international and diplomatic relations, while providing technical and advisory support to UAE government entities, and while strengthening cooperation with major training centres and universities to exchange experiences and best practices.

EDA's core areas are interlinked, with activities in one area contributing to the others to create balance and synergies.

1. Academics and Research
• Students study a customised course that incorporates UAE and regional context alongside EDA research
• EDA faculty participate in research projects supported by visiting Middle East scholars and institutional partnerships

2. Academics and Executive Education
• Students benefit from executive courses delivered by EDA
• Students of diplomacy collaborate and build professional networks (e.g. capstone)

3. Research and Executive Education
• Researchers design and improve training courses with relevant UAE-related content
• Researchers have access to students for study purposes (focus groups, surveys, etc.)

For more information about Emirates Diplomatic Academy, please visit www.eda.ac.ae

For media inquiries, contact:
Omar Badran
ASDA'A Burson-Marsteller
Omar.Badran@bm.com
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© Press Release 2015