Kombo calls for grooming competent diplomats
DAR ES SALAAM: MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, has stressed the need to nurture youth into competent diplomats equipped with strong negotiation skills in today’s multilateral world. Amb Kombo made the remarks on Monday at the Dr Salim Ahmed Salim Centre for Foreign Relations, while delivering a public lecture themed “The Position of Tanzania in Global Dynamics: A Strategic Perspective.”
He urged the Centre for Foreign Relations to place greater emphasis on teaching negotiation and conflict resolution skills to students, noting that they are future leaders expected to effectively represent and defend the country on the international stage.
He added that after his retirement, he would be happy to see Tanzania’s future is safe in the hands of the youth, who are well groomed leaders and prepared to represent and protect the country in the global arena.
He further noted that competent negotiators are essential for meaningful diplomatic engagements that promote national prosperity and peace at international platforms, including the United Nations (UN).
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He also highlighted the importance of effective communication skills, saying they are equally crucial in the private sector, especially for young professionals aspiring to work in multinational companies.
Furthermore, he encouraged the Centre to prepare graduates capable of engaging in debates with sound arguments in English across various international platforms and engagements.
Amb Kombo also called for increased focus on conflict resolution skills and the use of soft power in diplomacy. Soft power refers to the ability to influence other nations through persuasion and attraction rather than coercion.
He expressed optimism that the Centre would continue producing competent graduates who uphold the legacy of the renowned Tanzanian diplomat, Dr Salim Ahmed Salim, whose distinguished career earned global recognition.
In response to the lecture, a first-year Bachelor of International Relations and Diplomacy student, Ms Christina Nogisha, said the minister’s address boosted her confidence to dream big and work hard towards a successful career.
“It is an honour of a lifetime to participate in this historic lecture by the minister. I am delighted and inspired. I have gained valuable insights that have broadened my perspective,” Ms Nogisha told the ‘Daily News’.
