Symbiosis School of International Studies (SSIS) has launched a master of arts in African studies (geoeconomics and foreign policy) that provides a holistic understanding of the African continent and its relationship with major countries in the world. The two-year multidisciplinary program focuses on the political, economic and socio-cultural environment of the continent and its impact on global affairs.
Candidate must be a graduate of a statutory university with a minimum of 50 percent credits (45 percent for SC and ST) at graduate level. Applicants appearing for the final exam may also apply, but their admission is conditional on achieving a minimum of 50 percent marks (45 percent for SC and ST) on the qualifying exam.
An applicant who has obtained a qualifying qualification from a foreign council/university must obtain a certificate of equivalence from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) Symbiosis School of International Studies (SSIS), a branch of the Symbiosis International (Deemed University) was founded in 2012 aiming to bring a discourse on international relations through a well-designed academic program, conferences, symposia and exchanges with relevant stakeholders.
The MA African Studies focuses around the key areas of the African economy, foreign policy, history, culture and identity. It also delves into political processes and institutions, for a comprehensive understanding of the region’s emerging development trajectory.
In addition to encouraging students to learn and understand the African continent, the program aims to strengthen analytical, critical thinking and communication skills, including developing a holistic understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The program will also help the student to work in a multicultural environment.
Furthermore, the third and fourth semesters offer elective courses to help students delve deep into the subject in North, West and Central Africa and East, South Africa and Island States. It also offers the learning of Arabic and French languages as part of the elective courses.
The curriculum includes a mandatory internship in the third semester to help students implement their theoretical knowledge with the real-world scenario. Upon completion of the program, students can pursue a variety of career paths in the corporate, NGO, civil service, think tanks, media houses and international organizations or further pursue doctoral studies in the domain.
Aspirants can apply for MA African Studies (Geoeconomics and Foreign Policy) by visiting the official website of SSIS and registering for the program. Upon successful online registration and payment of the fee, subject to fulfillment of eligibility criteria, shortlisted candidates would be notified via email for Personal Interview (PI).
The PI will be performed virtually and aspirants will have to reserve their favorite slot for it. Aspirants must ensure uninterrupted connectivity and a functioning microphone to undergo the PI. The maximum score for PI is 100 points and can relate to general awareness, clarity of thinking and articulation, logical reasoning, learning orientation, motivation, extracurricular activities, specific area of interest, communication and soft skills, and overall personality.
Shivali Lawale, Director of the Symbiosis School of International Studies, said: “We are extremely pleased to announce the launch of MA in African Studies focusing on Geoeconomics and Foreign Policy. With the launch of this program, we are steadily diversifying our platform for education and research in international relations, focusing on India and its role in global affairs. With this program, we hope to empower future leaders and companies, who will strengthen India-Africa cooperation. We look forward to our to welcome the first batch of students.”
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