Collaboration with United Nations Institute for Training and Research
Newcastle University students to have access to UN training and collaboration opportunities.
4 March 2025
A brand-new agreement opens up opportunities for Newcastle University students to access a range of collaborative training and academic initiatives with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).
This agreement follows a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two parties - signed digitally by Professor Chris Whitehead, Interim Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Global at Newcastle University and Mr Nikhil Seth, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director of UNITAR. It will establish a cooperative framework for joint training and academic initiatives.
The MOU aims to strengthen collaboration between the two institutions by pooling expertise and expanding opportunities in areas such as, but not limited to, UN-focused academic programmes, study visits, online learning, and capacity-building initiatives.
Developing education and work experience opportunities for Newcastle University students
As part of this partnership, Newcastle University’s School of Modern Languages and UNITAR are exploring the possibility of a joint Master’s programme, which would integrate academic study and professional education with practical insights into language communication, global governance and diplomacy.
In addition, the proposed joint postgraduate programme outlines plans for a Geneva-based study element and work experience opportunities in multiple global destinations, enabling Newcastle University students to gain first-hand knowledge of the United Nations system. Plans also include training workshops on topics related to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, global governance, and diplomatic skills. The collaboration will also explore opportunities to develop and expand e-learning offerings to a wider audience.
By combining Newcastle University’s academic strengths with UNITAR’s expertise in multilateral diplomacy and training, this partnership seeks to enhance professional development opportunities for students and practitioners alike that may open more global career development pathways in both the private sector and the UN system, and more.
About UNITAR
UNITAR was created in 1963 to train and equip young diplomats from newly-independent UN Member States with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate through the diplomatic environment. It provides innovative learning solutions to individuals, organizations and institutions to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for shaping a better future.
About Newcastle University’s School of Modern Languages
The School of Modern Languages offers excellent research, teaching and student experience, centred on our extensive understanding of a broad range of languages and unique cultures that underpin these. Learn more about our study options https://www.ncl.ac.uk/sml/study-with-us/