Groundbreaking “Certified Economic Diplomat” program launched by IEF and IFIMES: A new era for global diplomacy

A landmark event marks the beginning of a transformative educational journey.

The Institute of Economics and Finance (IEF), under the visionary leadership of Professor Elvis Cornerstone, successfully launched the Certified Economic Diplomat Program on August 10th, 2024. This pioneering initiative, solely conceived by IEF, is designed to equip participants with essential skills at the intersection of economics and diplomacy.

Recognizing the value of collaboration and further enriching the program, IEF strategically partnered with the International Institute for Middle East and Balkan Studies (IFIMES) to invite experienced diplomats to contribute their insights This collaboration culminated in the launch’s central theme, “Africa Between Globalisation and Slowbalisation.””

The event was graced by prominent figures from the fields of economics, diplomacy, and international politics. The keynote presentation, delivered by Professor Jeffrey Sachs, a renowned economist and former Special Advisor to four consecutive UN Secretaries-General, captivated the audience. Prof. Sachs provided an insightful analysis of the launch’s theme, highlighting the complex challenges and opportunities the continent faces as it navigates the nuances of globalization.

Ambassador Issaka Imam, the Secretary-General of D-8, followed with a stirring speech that emphasized the critical role of economic diplomacy in shaping Africa’s future. His words resonated deeply with the participants, underscoring the urgency of equipping leaders with the skills to navigate the intertwined realms of economics and international diplomacy.

The ceremony was officially opened by Professor Elvis Cornerstone, President of IEF, who delivered a powerful welcome address. Prof. Cornerstone set the stage by acknowledging the 70 participants from 17 different countries, reflecting the global nature of the program. In his address, he emphasized the transformation of diplomacy in today’s world, where economic statecraft has become a vital tool for national development and international cooperation.

“Our collaboration with IFIMES, a distinguished institution with a rich history in fostering international dialogue and understanding, adds immense value to this program. IEF has crafted a curriculum that not only addresses the theoretical aspects of economic diplomacy but also provides practical insights from seasoned academics and diplomats,” said Prof. Cornerstone. He encouraged participants to engage fully with the program, stressing the unique opportunity to learn from leaders in the field and to apply this knowledge in their own nations.

Prof. Cornerstone also highlighted IEF’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and the real world since its founding in 2016. “Our programs are designed to be relevant, rigorous, and reflective of the latest trends in global economics and finance. The Certified Economic Diplomat Program is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation,” he added.

Another highlight of the ceremony was a compelling address by Prof. Anis Bajrektarevic, the Head of Mission of IFIMES, who provided a strategic overview of the program’s goals and its potential impact on global economic diplomacy. His speech reinforced IEF’s commitment to fostering a new generation of leaders who are equipped to navigate the complexities of international finance and diplomacy.

A noteworthy moment during the event was the presentation by Nii Laate Tetteh-Kwei, IEF’s Regional Director for Africa.

He introduced to the participants, an innovative initiative called “Young People in Finance,” (YPF) which aims to enhance financial literacy among Ghanaian youth. Now in its third year, YPF has been making a significant impact on financial literacy among Ghanaian teenagers through their schools.

This initiative, developed in collaboration with Junior High Schools, seeks to empower every child in Ghana with critical financial skills, including prioritizing spending, understanding the risks of fraud, making informed credit decisions, and grasping the fundamentals of insurance. This visionary program is a testament to IEF’s dedication to building a financially savvy future for the nation.

The Certified Economic Diplomat Program launched successfully, with participants eager to embark on this educational journey. The inaugural lesson, led by Dr. Ishmael Hlovor—a distinguished academic in international politics, political science, and diplomacy—set a strong foundation for the weeks to come.

The program’s curriculum is set to feature contributions from globally recognized experts, including Dr. Jovan Kurbalija, Founding Director of Diplo Foundation and former Executive Director of the UN Secretariat on Digital Cooperation, Ambassador Roland Kobia, EU Ambassador to the African Union and Ethiopia, and many others.

These experts will provide participants with cutting-edge insights and practical knowledge, ensuring that the program not only imparts theoretical understanding but also prepares participants for real-world challenges in economic diplomacy.

The successful launch of the Certified Economic Diplomat Program marks the beginning of a new chapter for IEF. As participants prepare for the upcoming lessons, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation for the transformative experiences that lie ahead. This program, with its blend of academic rigor and practical application, is poised to make a significant impact on the future of economic diplomacy, both in Africa and beyond.