This is an in-person course aimed at providing practical experience and scenarios for practising international negotiations, communication and co-opetition.

Outer space is catalytic to socioeconomic development and security. For example, earth observation is used in natural resource management, environmental monitoring and weather/climate services; satellite communication is used for communication and connectivity;  satellite navigation is used for localisation, navigation and location-based services; and astronomy facilitates Africa’s understanding of its history and heritage. All the above, and more, contribute to continental socio-economic and political progress, environmental sustainability, as well as scientific advancement of Africa.

Furthermore, outer space is a dynamic and complex mix of competition, conflict and cooperation. It is also described as a congested, contested and competitive domain.

Given the role that space plays in the international scene, including serving as a tool for peace and security, organizations and countries need to leverage on space cooperation in order to advance their internal and international interests.

The Maximising International Space Cooperation (MIS) course is aimed at equipping professionals, policy makers, diplomats, security experts, advisers and other practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed for space cooperation and diplomacy.

The course will consist of a combination of presentations, readings, interactive sessions, and simulations. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts in the field, share experiences, and discuss practical challenges and solutions. The course will also include networking sessions to facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among participants

Expected learning outcomes

• Appreciate the importance of space cooperation

• Learn to utilise the tools of space diplomacy

• Understand the nexus between foreign policy and space policy

• Ability to engage in bilateral and multilateral discussions and negotiations

Who should attend?

• Government officials

• Council members

• Representatives of space institutions

• Representatives from government ministries and departments

• Foreign service officers

• Science/Space attachés

• Organisation/Team Leads

• Journalists

• Young professionals

• Students

Benefits of participation

• Understand the rationale, methods and tools of international cooperation

• Acquire knowledge and skills in space cooperation and partnerships

• Access relevant space policy, governance and other related materials

• Earn a verifiable certificate after completion

• Become part of the ASLI Network

Facilitators

• Dr. Susmita Mohanty (Director General, Spaceport Sarabhai, India)

• Dr. Valanathan Munsami (Chief of Science, Saudi Space Agency)

• Mr. Etim Offiong (Cofounder, ASLI)

Registration