Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Students question multilateral diplomacy topics at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy on January 14, 2018. (Khushnum Bhandari/ The National)
Students debate multilateral diplomacy at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy on January 14, 2018. Khushnum Bhandari / The National

Diplomatic academy searches for UAE's ambassadors of the future



The UAE's diplomats of the future are being sought for a training programme that will see them represent their country on the world stage.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Wednesday said registration is open for Emirati graduates and employees of government and semi-government departments to apply to join the UAE’s diplomatic corps.

Candidates that meet entry requirements may submit their applications through the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA) by visiting www.eda.ac.ae and filling out the application form.

Applicants are not required to hold academic degrees in disciplines such as political science, history or economics. However, candidates must enrol in the post-graduate diploma programme in UAE Diplomacy and International Relations.

The nine-month Post-Graduate Diploma Programme combines academic courses with practical experience. Through lectures, meetings and interactive discussions with world diplomats and decision-makers, students will gain an unparalleled understanding of all aspects of international relations, with courses reflecting 21st century dynamics.

The academy said it would not only educate and prepare UAE nationals to serve and represent the country, but will also provide them with the "guidance and insights necessary to enable them to explore regional and global issues that affect the UAE and, ultimately, consolidate and enhance the nation’s international standing".

Applicants wishing to apply for the programme at EDA must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited university that is recognised by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and a GPA above 2.5 on a 4-point scale. They also need to have achieved a TOEFL score above 550 or equivalent (computer-based TOEFL score of 213, Internet-based TOEFL score of 79-80), or an IELTS score above 6.0. Entry procedures will also include several other assessments. Applicants working in government or semi-governmental entities are required to be nominated by their respective organisations.

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Wanted: new class of young diplomats to represent UAE on world stage

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