Group photograph of the LECIAD team with the visiting delegation from the Parliament of Zimbabwe.
The Legon Centre for International Affairs and Diplomacy (LECIAD) hosted a delegation from the External Relations Department of the Parliament of Zimbabwe for a study visit focused on knowledge sharing and collaboration in diplomatic training.
Acting Director, Prof. Peter Quartey, welcomed the delegation and outlined LECIAD’s mandate in teaching, research, advocacy, and policy engagement. He emphasised the importance of African institutions working together to strengthen diplomacy and governance across the continent.
Prof. Quartey was joined by LECIAD Administrator Madam Eccles Andoh, together with faculty members Amb. Kwabena Baah-Duodu, Prof. Philip Attuquayefio, Prof. Daniel Kipo-Sunyehzi, Dr. Linda Darkwa, Dr. Folashade Soule, and Dr. Juliana Appiah. Their collective expertise enriched the discussions and reflected the depth of the Centre’s academic and professional engagement.
Acting Director of LECIAD, Prof. Peter Quartey, addressing the Zimbabwean delegation during the study visit.
Led by Madam Rudo N.E. Doka, the Zimbabwean team shared experiences in parliamentary diplomacy and etiquette, along with plans to establish a Parliamentary Training Academy. LECIAD faculty, in turn, presented insights on postgraduate training programmes, student enrolment, partnerships, and international initiatives, with focus areas including economic transformation, security, and migration.
Madam Rudo N.E. Doka, leader of the Zimbabwean delegation, sharing remarks during the study visit to LECIAD.
The dialogue highlighted shared challenges such as sustaining training programmes, and the need for stronger orientation for Members of Parliament and staff in diplomacy, negotiation, and protocol. Discussions also explored contemporary issues including the use of artificial intelligence and digital tools, economic diplomacy, and the potential for tailored short courses in parliamentary diplomacy, international agreements, and AI literacy.
Both sides identified opportunities for collaboration in training programmes, short courses, joint research, and knowledge exchange. Prof. Quartey announced that the Centre is reviving its portfolio of short courses to expand opportunities for professional development and international engagement.
Prof. Quartey and LECIAD faculty members guiding the Zimbabwean delegation on a tour of the Centre’s facilities.
The study visit, held on 18 September, concluded with appreciation from Madam Doka, who commended the warm reception and fruitful discussions, and highlighted the valuable lessons learned for strengthening parliamentary external relations in Zimbabwe. The delegation was also taken on a tour of LECIAD’s facilities and the wider University of Ghana campus.