Sciences Po and AGDA Launch Executive Programme on Geopolitics and Business in MENA

The Sciences Po Executive Education and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) have recently unveiled their collaborative effort, a new executive education certificate program titled "Geopolitics and Business Environment in the MENA Region." This initiative is designed to arm participants with the essential skills for building a robust professional network. Such a network is crucial for the development and execution of effective business strategies, projects, and relationships within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which includes countries like Türkiye and Iran. Since 2010, this region has been witnessing significant political and economic transformations, leading to the emergence of new development models.

The program aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the MENA region's evolving landscape. It will cover various aspects, including geopolitical and security considerations, adaptation to the new economic order, and insights into emerging growth sectors spurred by economic diversification strategies. Additionally, it will offer tools and knowledge essential for launching and managing successful projects or business ventures while also delving into the socio-cultural and legal contexts of the MENA region.

Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA, emphasized the strategic partnership between Sciences Po and AGDA as a cornerstone for equipping participants with the knowledge to navigate and influence the complex business and geopolitical landscape of the MENA region. He highlighted the program's role in enhancing diplomatic and business expertise, fostering collaboration, and contributing to regional growth.

Benoit Banchereau, Director of Sciences Po Executive Education, shared his enthusiasm for the program. He pointed out that the training course aims to decipher the MENA zone through a human and social sciences perspective. This approach is expected to enable participants to better understand the strategic commercial stakes in the region. Banchereau praised AGDA's expertise in diplomacy and regional insights, which complement Sciences Po's commitment to openness and interdisciplinary teaching.

The bespoke accredited certificate program is structured into four modules spread over a minimum of 10 days. It targets diplomats, public sector executives, directors of companies, and institutions who seek to deepen their expertise on the MENA region. The curriculum is delivered by specialists and regional stakeholders recognized in their fields, many of whom are actively working within the MENA zone.

By completing this program, professionals will gain the ability to conduct detailed analyses of the economic and political situations in the MENA region. They will understand geopolitical shifts, regional security contexts, and be able to formulate strategies for establishing operations and finding investment opportunities. Furthermore, participants will learn to navigate social and cultural environments effectively, apply knowledge of diversification strategies and new growth sectors, identify decision-making processes, build a top-tier professional network, select suitable partners, and promote their position as well as that of their organization.

With inputs from WAM