The Leadership, Governance and Global Affairs Program is committed to preparing leaders who can navigate complex governance structures, drive institutional change, and influence public policy. The curriculum integrates strategic leadership training, international relations, and governance frameworks to develop effective, ethical, and visionary leaders. Through experiential learning, policy simulations, and collaboration with policymakers and international organizations, students gain practical skills in diplomatic negotiations, organizational management, and leadership in times of change. Graduates of this program will be equipped to lead organizations in both public and private sectors, as well as contribute to policy-making and governance initiatives.
Leadership Learning Pathways and Courses
This course explores the principles of international relations, global negotiations, and diplomatic strategy. Students will engage in case studies on diplomatic conflict resolution, trade agreements, and cross-cultural communication to develop the skills needed for successful diplomatic engagement and negotiation.
Master the essential rules of diplomatic conduct, cross-cultural communication, and formal protocol used in international engagements. From ceremonial behavior to gift-giving and professional dress, this course prepares students to navigate global settings with confidence and cultural sensitivity.
This course explores current global power dynamics, international alliances, and the geopolitical forces shaping Africa’s role in the world. Topics include diplomacy in multipolarity, shifting trade routes, and Africa’s engagement with China, the EU, and emerging blocs.
Students are introduced to the theory and practice of cultural diplomacy, examining how arts, heritage, education, and cultural exchange shape international cooperation. The course highlights Africa’s cultural assets as instruments of peacebuilding, influence, and global partnership.
Learners examine real-world examples of African countries leveraging culture in global engagement, from Nollywood and Afrobeats to heritage diplomacy and language policy. Practical sessions focus on designing cultural exchange programs and engaging diaspora communities.
Explore how countries shape perception and build international alliances through storytelling, media, academic exchange, and cultural branding. Students will analyze successful public diplomacy campaigns and create their own strategy for advancing national or organizational influence.
In this capstone course, students design and present a real-world cultural diplomacy initiative or campaign, integrating policy, programming, and global relations. The lab format includes mentoring, peer review, and the opportunity to pitch to a panel of cultural and diplomatic leaders.
Builds foundational understanding of public administration, governance, and the ethical frameworks that support accountability.
Focuses on regional economic policies, development planning, and regulatory frameworks that shape Africa's socio-economic landscape. Provides tools and frameworks for policy design, analysis, and implementation within African development contexts.
Explores collaboration models between governments and private entities for infrastructure development and economic sustainability.
This course is designed for leaders from all industries to explore their leadership styles, strengths, and areas for growth. Participants will complete leadership assessments, engage in interactive discussions on leadership theory and best practices, and create a personalized leadership action plan to apply their learning in their current roles and future leadership endeavors.
Focuses on building personal and organizational resilience, equipping leaders with change management strategies, adaptability techniques, and decision-making frameworks in high-pressure environments. Participants will learn how to drive organizational transformation while maintaining team morale and engagement.
Learn how to lead inclusively by addressing bias, fostering psychological safety, and promoting equity in organizational settings. This course helps leaders create environments where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully.
Designed for leaders navigating uncertainty, this course focuses on building personal resilience, emotional agility, and adaptive leadership. Learners will explore frameworks for leading through disruption, managing burnout, and sustaining motivation during times of change.
This course examines the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in leadership roles, with tools to navigate bias, advocate for inclusion, and lead authentically. It is open to all leaders committed to advancing gender equity and inclusive leadership.
Gain skills to navigate power dynamics, manage competing interests, and influence decisions across complex stakeholder landscapes. Through practical exercises, learners will build negotiation strategies and strengthen their ability to lead through influence rather than authority.
