Academic Session: – 2024-2025 (Odd Semester)
Date: 27th September 2024
Mode of Activity: Offline
Venue: The Hotel Grand, Delhi
Timing: 11:00 AM onwards
Target Group: Masters and Graduates Students of International Relations
Activity Coordinators: Dr. Manju Kandu and Mr. Mohd Mohnish
Organized by: School of Liberal Arts, Noida International University
Introduction:
On 27th September 2024, a group of 36 students along with two of faculty mebers department of International Relations of School of liberal Arts at Noida Interntaional University had the privilege of visiting the Zimbabwen Embassy (Venue: Grand Hotel, Vasant Kunj, Delhi).
This diplomatic outreach initiative was an educational visit aimed to foster greater understanding and cooperation between India and Zimbabwe, while providing students with a unique opportunity to engage with experienced diplomats and gain insights into the complexities of international relations. Throughout the visit, students actively participated in discussions, asked thoughtful questions, and gained valuable perspectives on the role of diplomacy in shaping global affairs. The purpose of the visit was to provide students of International Relations from Noida International University with practical exposure to diplomacy and the functioning of an embassy. It aimed at broadening their understanding of international relations through an interactive session with embassy officials and engaging in discussions on Zimbabwe’s foreign policy, bilateral relations with India, and global diplomacy.
Aims/Objectives:
The objective of this visit was to provide university students with:
- an opportunity to engage with diplomatic officials,
- gain insights into the embassy’s operations,
- understand the country’s foreign policy and bilateral relations.
Content:
The event was organized at Grand Hotel Vasant Kunj, New Delhi on 27th Sep 24 by the Zimbabwe embassy. The event started at 11:30 am with interaction with embassy officials, students were provide with valuable insights into the role of diplomacy by her excellency Stella M. Nkomo, the Ambassador of Zimbabwe to India. A presentation was given on the history and current state of Zimbabwe-India relations. The presentation covered a wide range of topics, including economic cooperation, cultural exchange and sports diplomacy. Presentation was followed by Q&A rounds, wherer several questions were posted to the ambassador and her team. In her closing remarks, the ambassdor expressed her pride in seeing India take on a leadership role in the Global South, fostering cooperation and solidarity among developing nations. She conveyed her optimism for the future of Zimbabwe-India relations, rooted in shared values and mutual respect. Session was followed by photograph session and high tea where several informal discussion took place between the students and Zimbabwe Embassy staff.
Outcome:
The visit provided valuable insights into the diplomatic world. Q&A session was informative and engaging. The embassy staff were knowledgeable and approachable.
- Students learnt about the country’s foreign policy priorities.
- The embassy officials highlighted the country’s focus on (insert key areas, e.g., trade, security, human rights). (Note: Placeholder in original text)
- Further issue like, bilateral relations, cultural exchange, career opportunities and tourism was brought into light.
Conclusion:
The embassy visit was a valuable learning experience for university students, offering a unique perspective on international relations, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. The meet concluded on a high note, with ambassador Stella M. Nkomo encouraging students to pursue diplomacy as a career and to remain engaged in the global dialogue. It was a truly enriching experience, providing students with a deeper understanding of Zimbabwe’s cultural, diplomatic, and international strategies.
