By Deng Ghai Deng
At least 123 diplomats graduated yesterday after a three-month intensive course at the Institute of Diplomatic Studies (IDS) in Juba.
The ceremony took place at the Pyramid Continental Hotel, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s diplomatic capabilities.
Ambassador Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, addressed the graduates with a call to action.
He emphasized the importance of continuous self-improvement and independent study, urging the newly minted diplomats to build their personal libraries and remain proactive in their professional development.
“Training like this is not enough. For diplomats, you need to have your own mini library at home. Collect textbooks about international relations, history, politics, law—name them. Don’t wait for training; you need to build yourself,” Goc said.
This cohort of diplomats represents the first group to graduate from IDS, a program supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The course aimed to provide a comprehensive foundation in international relations, preparing these junior diplomats for the complex demands of global diplomacy.
Sheila Ngatia, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in South Sudan, spoke at the event, underscoring the program’s significance.
She highlighted that the training represents a valuable investment in the professional growth of young diplomats, emphasizing its role in enhancing skills across various dimensions of diplomacy, including political, economic, environmental, cultural, public, and digital.
“We express our profound gratitude to the developmental partners and the government of South Sudan for trusting UNDP to contribute to the capacity-building of these diplomats. This partnership will have a meaningful impact on creating a skilled and knowledgeable Foreign Service workforce, essential for promoting sustainable development in South Sudan,” Ngatia said.
The graduation marks a fundamental moment for South Sudan’s diplomatic community, reflecting the country’s commitment to strengthening its foreign service and advancing its role on the global stage.