By Alan Clement
In a strategic move to boost governance and standards, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with UNDP, has launched a 40‑day training programme to prepare the next generation of South Sudanese diplomats.
According to a statement from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, the programme, coordinated through the Diplomatic Institute under the leadership of Director General Ambassador Ajing Adiang Ariik, aims to equip participants with practical diplomatic skills while promoting ethics, discipline, and effective public service within the Ministry.
“This initiative is designed to strengthen institutional professionalism and enhance the capacity of our diplomatic corps,” Amb. Ajing said in a statement.
He noted that the training underscored the importance of professional representation.
“Participants will acquire the knowledge necessary to effectively represent South Sudan at regional and international platforms,” Amb. Ajing noted.
Sheila Nagatia, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, emphasized the importance of investing in South Sudan’s future diplomatic corps.
“Developing a skilled and professional diplomatic service is crucial for South Sudan as it engages in regional cooperation, trade negotiations, and peacebuilding initiatives,” she said.
The programme which will target young diplomats and mid-level officers, will focus on practical skills such as consular services, international law, negotiation techniques, and cross-border engagement.
By embedding ethics, professionalism, and accountability in the curriculum, the training seeks to address historical capacity gaps that have challenged South Sudan’s diplomatic effectiveness.
Ambassador Agnes Adlino Orifa Oswaha, Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, highlighted the initiative’s broader governance impact.
“This training is not only about diplomacy; it is about building a culture of accountability and service that strengthens our institutions from within,” she said.
The Ministry underscored that continuous professional learning is central to building a credible foreign service with Amb. Agnes stressing that investing in training ensures diplomats uphold integrity, competence, and responsibility in representing South Sudan internationally.
“Professional learning within the Ministry ensures that our diplomats can represent the country credibly and responsibly in regional forums and multilateral negotiations.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Monday Semaya K. Kumba, underscored the importance of discipline and seriousness in the programme. “South Sudan faces complex challenges at home and abroad,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that the diplomatic training is a cornerstone of South Sudan’s foreign policy renewal, urging participants to embrace discipline and professionalism.
“Our diplomats must approach this training with dedication, respect, and professionalism, as they carry the responsibility of representing our nation in a highly interconnected region,” he added.
UNDP’s involvement also signals international confidence in South Sudan’s commitment to improving governance and institutional standards. “By equipping diplomats with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, South Sudan is taking a concrete step towards enhancing its international engagement,” Nagatia added.
The initiative comes at a time when South Sudan continues to recover from years of conflict and seeks to establish a credible, professional civil service capable of supporting national development priorities.
As the 40-day programme unfolds, participants are expected to emerge with enhanced skills, a deeper understanding of diplomatic responsibilities, and a strengthened commitment to ethics and public service.
The very foundations critical to building a professional and effective foreign service capable of advancing South Sudan’s national and regional interests.