The University of Nairobi’s Department of Diplomacy and International Studies (DDIS) hosted a distinguished delegation from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver, United States, for a Research Practicum from November 22 to December 20, 2024. The delegation, consisting of 11 graduate students and faculty members, engaged in a series of academic exchanges, research activities, and institutional visits aimed at fostering international collaboration and enriching their understanding of diplomacy and international studies in an African context.
Key Highlights of the Practicum
Welcome Meeting and Project Introduction – November 25, 2024
The practicum commenced with a welcome meeting and introductory project presentations by faculty members from the University of Nairobi’s DDIS. Presentations were delivered by:
- Patrick Maluki – Chair and Professor, specializing in diplomacy, international conflict management, and international political economy.
- Amb. Maria Nzomo – Emeritus Professor and Ambassador, with expertise in international studies, global & local governance, diplomacy, African international relations, international political economy, and gender studies.
- Winnie Cheptoo Rugutt – Director, Center for the Study of the United States, University of Nairobi.
Following the presentations, research team meetings were held between the visiting students and faculty members to discuss research objectives and methodologies.
Research Activities and Institutional Visits
Throughout the practicum, students and faculty engaged in a range of academic and professional activities, including:
- Collaborative research with local faculty and participation in seminars.
- Visit to the United Nations Offices in Nairobi, providing insights into multilateral diplomacy and global governance.
- Seminar discussions at the University of Nairobi, focusing on different stages of research projects and their application in an African context.
- Visit to the Kenyan Parliament, gaining firsthand exposure to Kenya’s legislative processes and governance structures.
- Consultative Meeting – December 6, 2024, with key faculty members, including Prof. Amb. Maria Nzomo, Dr. Patrick Maluki, Dr. Winnie Rugutt (University of Nairobi), Dr. Muyeba, and Dr. Kabandula (Korbel Faculty), to discuss ongoing research and academic collaboration.
Culmination of the Practicum – December 20, 2024
The practicum concluded with the presentation of research reports and reflexive pieces by the Denver University students, followed by a closing luncheon attended by Prof. Amb. Maria Nzomo, Dr. Patrick Maluki, and Dr. Winnie Rugutt. The event served as an opportunity to reflect on the knowledge exchanged and the strengthening of academic partnerships between the two institutions.
Looking Ahead
The successful completion of this research practicum underscores the importance of cross-institutional collaboration in global diplomacy and international studies. The partnership between the University of Nairobi and the University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School continues to provide students and faculty with invaluable opportunities to engage in comparative research, policy discussions, and professional development in international affairs.
