Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Strategic Studies and Training Department
Myanmar Diplomatic Academy

Background

The Certificate Course in Basic Diplomatic Skills (BDS) program was established in the year 2000. It has been conducted 46 times till 2024, with approximately 8,000 participants successfully completing the program.

This program is designed for candidates from both public and private sectors with a keen interest in diplomacy and international affairs.

Course Objectives

• To share diplomatic insights and knowledge with civil servants engaged in international relations, as well as individuals from private sectors interested in diplomacy and international affairs.
• To actively contribute to the development of the nation’s human capital by cultivating a cohort of professionals well-versed in diplomacy and international affairs.

Course Structure

The program’s framework is built upon four separate clauses:

1. The Approach, bridging the public and private sectors through a comprehensive, integrated journey;
2. The Foundation, delivering accessible insights into key diplomatic pillars;
3. The Integration, demonstrating how these diverse themes shape modern diplomatic practice; and
4. The Outcome, ensuring participants emerge with a profound understanding of the interconnected global and national issues essential to diplomatic engagement.

Syllabus

The course consists of seven modules covering the foundations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomacy, international affairs, international relations, international law, political economy, and thematic and general knowledge.

Course Duration and Schedule

The program spans a standard duration of 12 weeks.

Designed to accommodate professionals from both the public and private sectors, sessions are conveniently scheduled during off-office hours, running from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

Special Features

As a foundational program, the BDS course is designed to prepare participants for the subsequent Certificate Course in Enhanced Diplomatic Skills (EDS).

To provide practical, hands-on experience, essential class activities such as simulations of international conferences, negotiations and formal banquet, and educational field trips are integrated and conducted in accordance with the course timeline.

Admission Requirements and Enrollment

To be eligible for the program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree.

The application process requires the submission of criminal record clearance and residency verifications from local police and township administration authorities, alongside an official institutional endorsement for serving civil servants.

Final selection is merit-based, conducted via a formal oral examination overseen by the department.

To ensure an optimal learning environment, enrollment is limited to 100 participants per cohort.