Representatives from Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Public Policy recently travelled to Moscow where they visited the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA) to explore potential collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

As part of a 10-day itinerary, Dr. Leslie Alexander Pal, dean of the College of Public Policy, delivered two lectures on public policy analysis and public management in relation to global policy institutes, with both talks included in a short module of lectures offered by the academy. His visit falls against the backdrop of upcoming activities in Russia to support HBKU’s student recruitment drive.

Dr. Pal’s lectures specifically aligned with RANEPA’s Bachelor of Public Policy and Social Sciences and Master of Science in Global Leadership programs. He previously taught in the Master of Global Public Policy at the academy and was part of the World Bank advisory team that oversaw development of the program. 

As part of the visit, the College of Public Policy also explored possibilities for co-organized summer programs, as well as student and faculty exchange opportunities. 

Commenting on the visit, Dr. Pal said: “Educational institutions today have to teach and research across traditional disciplines and fields, and need to offer opportunities for their students to understand different cultures and national contexts. Our students need to bring the world home, and their home to the world. The College of Public Policy contributes to this goal by facilitating knowledge exchange, and ensuring its students’ skills and acquired knowledge are relevant in an increasingly complex world.”

“As both our institutions are leaders in the fields of public policy and management in our countries, a partnership only makes sense. Student exchanges, summer programs, and research partnerships are just a few of the areas that were discussed between HBKU’s College of Public Policy and RANEPA. Both institutions have distinguished programs at undergraduate and graduate levels, with a strong emphasis on global challenges and global leadership. Providing opportunities for learning and sharing experiences would benefit both institutions, and be enriching for our students,” said Dr. Natalia Abramova, director of the School of Public Policy and Management at the Institute of Social Sciences, RANEPA.

RANEPA, which was founded in 2010, aims to become a leader in public management training for students who seek to contribute to the nation’s civil service workforce. 

The College of Public Policy draws on world renowned faculty to deliver an academic experience that focuses on interdisciplinarity, strong ethical foundations, entrepreneurship in public management, and innovation in policymaking and design. The college’s flagship program – the Master of Public Policy – was designed to meet national and regional needs and support a cohort of students with what they need to command a wide range of skills.

In late September and October, an HBKU led delegation will be in Moscow and Saint Petersburg to further the university’s global outreach efforts. HBKU will be exhibiting at the QS World Grad School Tour educational fair where faculty members and admissions staff will be available to meet with prospective students. Interested applicants will have their questions answered about the university’s fast evolving programs and entry requirements. 

For more information about the College of Public Policy, please visit cpp.hbku.edu.qa.