"It reflects the kind of energy and commitment Wales is putting into helping other countries."
NW, Welsh Government (Client)

Welsh Assembly Government

Africa Awaits for Welsh Leaders

Leaders from across Wales are embarking on life-changing assignments across Africa, thanks to the International Learning Opportunities programme.

Since April 2010, Emerging World has been working with the Welsh Assembly Government and other partners, to seek out the most innovative and ambitious leaders Wales has to offer. So far, fifteen individuals have been out to Cameroon, Lesotho, Uganda and Zambia on assignments lasting between six and eight weeks.

Working with partner organizations on a diverse range of projects - such as developing a communications strategy for a national Civic Forum and supporting a territorial approach to climate change on a United Nations Development Programme - the programme is designed to stretch and enthuse individuals, showcasing the leadership skills Wales has to offer within the emerging world.

Participants have been selected from a range of public services across Wales, such as the Museum for Wales, the Environment Agency and Cardiff City Council. What they have in common is a desire to share what they already know, broaden their experience and learn new skills. What they bring back to Wales is an invaluable, international perspective to their work, along with a renewed vigour and confidence.

Applications are made through PSMW (Public Sector Management Wales). There are three application deadlines a year and there will be fifteen places available in the next round next which opens in August 2011.

"I think this project truly reflects the kind of energy and commitment, Wales is prepared to put into helping other countries,” said Dr Neil Wooding, Director of PSMW. “The outcomes of this highly successful programme are very rich and detailed and it is an initiative of which we are extremely proud."