UoN unveils new study module to boost global diplomatic training

The University of Nairobi has started a new academic module on Comparative Studies of the European Union and the African Union to strengthen educational ties.

The programme which is hosted by the Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies (IDIS) marks a significant milestone in strengthening Africa–Europe academic cooperation.

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The university Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Prof. Jack Odhiambo, said the module will enhance interdisciplinary scholarship and globally relevant academic programmes that prepare students for leadership, public service, and international engagement.

Odhiambo said education is the cornerstone of development and global cooperation and urged learners to leverage on the opportunities that come with it.

“The programme is aiming at advancing high-level training in diplomacy and regional integration. Let students to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by the new module to enhance their academic and professional growth,” he said.

Speaking during the launch of the programme, Prof Odhiambo underscored the growing importance of regional integration, saying that Africa is increasingly becoming a co-creator of the global agenda rather than a passive participant.

Present were the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies (IDIS) chairman Prof. Patrick Maluki, Head of Political Affairs and Communication at the EU Delegation Christine Barrows, Director General of the Kenya Foreign Service Academy Ambassador Patrick Wamoto, Chief Executive Officer Protocol Hub International John Apollo and Chairman of EU relations with Less Developed Countries Asteris Huliaras, Maluki said the programme is positioning IDIS on the global stage through expanded teaching and research anchored on people-centred leadership.

“The module will equip master’s students with practical knowledge and analytical skills to engage effectively with regional and multilateral institutions. Students should not view the programme merely as a subject of study, but as a platform to advance and strengthen regional integration in practice,” Maluki said.

Barrows highlighted the importance of academic cooperation in strengthening EU–Africa relations and encouraged students to critically examine institutions, politics, and people. Barrows said the module will help students better understand the EU and AU relations.

“The programme will empower students and enlighten them. This will make them counter misinformation and fake news through critical and analytical learning,” Barrows said.

The programme is being implemented under the Germone Programme, an initiative designed to deepen academic collaboration between Europe and Africa

The University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Ayub Gitau appreciated the European Union for its continued partnership. Wamoto reaffirmed the importance of aligning academic training with the practical demands of diplomacy and foreign service.

“Universities and academies will play a central role in nurturing ideas. The programme is evidence-based policy development and future diplomatic leadership,” Wamoto said.

The programme coordinator Lynnette Odondi outlined the implementation framework and reiterated the University’s readiness to deliver the module at the highest academic standards. The new module firmly positions the University of Nairobi and IDIS at the forefront of comparative regional integration studies, reinforcing the institution’s role as a key contributor to EU–Africa intellectual and policy cooperation.