| Adebayo Daniel Feranmi
INTRODUCTION
Purpose of the trip
The purpose of the trip was to gain a practical exposure on the theoretical issues learned and discussed in the class on Politics of International Economic Relations. The NIIA is the foremost foreign policy think tank of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which engages on behalf of the country on a broad spectrum of issues in international affairs, ranging from politics, trade, foreign policy and diplomacy, conflict and peace negotiations. So, it was most necessary and appropriate to expose year three students of International Law and Diplomacy on this broad range of issues, particularly the politics of trade relations.
Organizing Department/School: Political Science and Public Administration/ Veronica Adeleke School of Social Sciences (VASSS)
Date and duration: March 12, 2025/ One day
Number of participants (students & staff): 44 students and one faculty
OBJECTIVES ACHIEVED
Academic Enrichment and Deeper Understanding:
The first objective of this trip was to achieve academic enrichment and deeper understanding by exposing the students to real-world scenarios, to enable them bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge learned in the classroom and the practical application of international economic and political issues in a Nigerian context. The students witnessed first hand how the concepts discussed in the classroom intertwined with practical knowledge in a professional setting. The students had access to the NIIA library which had a rich collection of scholarly works and researches on different subject matters in international affairs that can enhance research; and they were encouraged to visit the library whenever they want to engage in an academic exercise.
Professional Development and Networking:
The students were exposed to professional work environment. They interacted with the staff of the institute on opportunities for potential career path in government agencies, international organizations and institutions related to international affairs. They had valuable interaction with the staff of the institute on possible opportunities for networking, internships and employment.
Key Observation
The visit to the NIIA transformed the learning experience of the students from a purely academic point of view to a more immersive and practically oriented one, offering them invaluable insights and potential pathways for their future endeavours
SDG Alignment
The conversation linked directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger: Addressing food insecurity through resilient agricultural policies
- SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy: Exploring clean and sustainable energy options
- SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth: Promoting inclusive and resilient economic systems
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions: Strengthening diplomacy and governance to navigate global conflicts
