Haramaya University Conducts Ambassadorial Leadership & Capacity Building Training for International Students
Haramaya University successfully conducted a one-day training titled “Ambassadorial Leadership & Capacity Building” for Somali international students on 22 February 2026 at the Resource Center Hall of the University.
The program was organized by the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs in collaboration with the Academic Programs Directorate and the International Student Affairs Directorate as part of the University’s continued commitment to strengthening international student engagement and leadership development.
The training was conducted by Mr. Said Ahmed Ali, a PhD candidate, and aimed to improve participants’ leadership skills, diplomatic abilities, public speaking, and readiness as ambassadors in multicultural academic environments.
In his opening address, Dr. Augustine Sesay, Director of the International Student Affairs Directorate, emphasized the transformative role of international students within the University community. “International students are not merely learners within this institution,” said Dr. Sesay. “You are ambassadors of your country and, equally, ambassadors of Haramaya University.
The way you speak, engage, and perform academically contributes directly to the visibility and global reputation of this University.” Dr. Sesay highlighted that transitioning into a new higher education environment requires more than academic competence. “Adjusting to a new academic culture requires cultural intelligence, professional conduct, and leadership maturity,” he stated. “This training equips you to navigate this environment confidently while preserving your identity.” Underscoring the broader institutional significance of the initiative, Dr. Sesay further affirmed, “When you excel academically, communicate diplomatically, and demonstrate integrity, you enhance Haramaya University’s global image. You become living bridges between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
Drawing on contemporary leadership scholarship, the training introduced participants to the concept of ambassadorial leadership. This form of leadership emphasizes influence over authority, communication over control, and relationship-building over domination. Participants engaged in thematic sessions that covered essential skills such as international representation and diplomacy, public speaking, teamwork, conflict resolution, and capacity building for both personal and professional development.
Through interactive discussions, structured reflections, and scenario-based simulations, students practiced diplomatic negotiation, mediation techniques, emotional regulation, and responsible digital engagement. The program paid particular attention to the challenges commonly faced by Somali student ambassadors, including stereotypes, language barriers, internal community disagreements, and digital risks. These challenges were reframed as opportunities for strategic leadership and positive representation.
The training focused on professional conduct, time management, academic integrity, and cultural sensitivity as essential aspects of ambassadorial responsibility. Participants were encouraged to exemplify ethical behavior, respectful communication, and emotional intelligence in their academic and social interactions.
The workshop concluded with an action-planning session in which students developed initiatives such as mentorship programs and cultural forums to strengthen unity and promote academic excellence within the university community. By the end of the program, participants showed increased confidence and a clear understanding of their roles as representatives of their nation and the university. This successful training underscores Haramaya University’s commitment to inclusive leadership and empowering international students as capable ambassadors.
Haramaya University Public and International Relations
Tags: Academic Capacity Building, Ambassadorial Leadership, Capacity Building Training, Global Students, Haramaya University, Higher Education Ethiopia, International Students, Leadership Training, Student Development, University Training Programs
