AIDIA opens applications for MIAED September 2026 intake

KATHMANDU: The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA), in academic partnership with Kathmandu University (KU), has opened applications for the September 2026 cohort of the Master in International Affairs, Economy and Diplomacy (MIAED) programme.

The two-year graduate programme, taught in English through in-person classes, spans four semesters and awards 60 academic credits. It aims to prepare a new generation of globally competent leaders able to navigate an increasingly interconnected world marked by intensifying geopolitical competition, evolving economic systems, technological disruption and complex global challenges. The programme combines academic scholarship with practical policy engagement to equip students with the necessary knowledge, analytical capability and leadership skills.

Sunil KC, Founder and Executive Chairman of AIDIA-MIAED, said the programme integrates international affairs, diplomacy, economics, public policy, strategic studies and global governance into an interdisciplinary curriculum aligned with international academic standards. He said students will benefit from a learning experience that connects theory with practice through a policy lab, diplomatic simulations, negotiation exercises, applied research, executive dialogues and engagement with leading practitioners.

Prof Imtiaz Ahmed, Dean of AIDIA-MIAED, said the programme covers topics such as international affairs, diplomacy, international political economy, security and strategy, emerging global challenges, research methods and leadership skills. He added that, in addition to classroom instruction, students will engage in research projects, attend international conferences, participate in field visits, network at events, join think tank activities and attend leadership workshops.

The programme brings together a faculty of scholars, former ambassadors, diplomats, policymakers, development professionals and industry experts from Nepal and abroad, offering students direct exposure to contemporary global issues and a practical understanding of international policymaking and diplomacy.

Ambassador Durga Bahadur Subedi, PhD, Executive Vice Chairman and Principal for AIDIA-MIAED programme, said graduates will be equipped for leadership roles in foreign affairs ministries, diplomatic missions, international organisations, UN agencies, regional institutions, development banks, public-policy groups, research centres, universities, international media, multinational corporations (MNCs), corporate public affairs, international business, consulting and the wider development sector.

The programme encourages applications from government officials, foreign service officers, military personnel, development experts, corporate leaders, journalists, researchers, NGO and INGO staff, entrepreneurs, public-policy specialists and recent graduates interested in international affairs and global leadership.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university. Admission will be conducted through a competitive process consisting of an entrance examination, an interview and final selection. The initial cohort will be limited to 40 students to ensure an engaging learning environment. Merit-based scholarships and fellowships will be available to deserving students.

AIDIA is a think tank and graduate school dedicated to international affairs, diplomacy, public policy, economic diplomacy, strategic studies and leadership development. Through research, policy dialogue and graduate education, the institution seeks to bridge academia, policy and practice while preparing leaders to contribute to Nepal, South Asia and the wider international community.

Applications for the September 2026 intake are open. Prospective applicants can apply online at apply.aidia.edu.np or contact AIDIA for details on admission requirements, application procedures and programme information.