Program Overview

Course in Africa and International Trade - Building an African Developmental State

Overview

The Course in Africa and International Trade - Building an African Developmental State is a short learning program designed to build basic knowledge of international trade theory, policy, and practice. The program aims to familiarize participants with the most important challenges and opportunities for Africa's integration into the world trading system.

Target Group

The target group for this program includes:

• Professionals in different fields
• Members of different political parties and formations
• Civil servants, civil society activists, and community leaders
• Women and gender activists
• Students and youth
• Spiritual/religious leaders and activists

Admission Requirements

The admission requirement for this program is an equivalent NQF level 4 qualification. No previous study of trade or development economics is assumed, although exposure to African economic and development policy debates, particularly as these relate to the continent's trade and investment, would be expected.

Program Details

Registration Periods

The program is offered during Unisa semester dates.

Course Leader Details

The course leader is Prof M Mkhize, PhD in International Relations, Stellenbosch University, with expertise in International Relations.

Programme Administrator

The program administrator is Mr Mohau Manthata, TM-School, Unisa.

Purpose Statement

The purpose of this program is to:

• Build basic knowledge of international trade theory, policy, and practice
• Familiarize participants with the most important challenges and opportunities for Africa's integration into the world trading system
• Discuss alternative policies and strategies for developing Africa's productive and trade (export) capacities for world trade
• Enable participants to interpret and formulate policies and positions on international trade
• Study cases of Africa's trade diplomacy drawn from across the continent

Modules

The program consists of two modules:

CAIT01D - GLOBAL TRADE THEORY AND PRACTICE AND AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT

Content:

• Introduction to the theories of international trade
• The historical role of trade policy in development and the implications for Africa
• The multilateral governance of world trade and its impact on African trade policies

CAIT02E - AFRICA AND THE POLITICS OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Content:

• Africa in the world trading system
• International trade and investment, with specific reference to Africa
• Trade policymaking in Africa

Duration and Language

The program duration is 6 months, and the language medium is English.