“The information I gained will facilitate me in my day-to-day duties, not only to improve my country’s presence, but also to explore trade opportunities in the different sectors for other countries on the global market” says Ms. Ralseia Rosanda Glasgow, a Trade Policy Officer in the Ministry of International Trade, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs in Saint Kitts and Nevis and a participant in the course. She added that her take away from the course is navigating the WTO's portal websites such as e-Ping, Market Access Map (MAcMap), Integrated Trade Intelligence (I-TIP), knowledge which is extremely valuable in the digital era.

Miss. Maseline Athiambo Kamasara, Senior Trade Development Officer at Kenya's Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and Enterprise Development, said the ATPC's incorporation of simulations of negotiations was an impactful tool. “These simulations gave me deeper insights into the multi-layered intricacies of multilateral negotiations as conducted among over 164 member countries pursuing divergent interests with the aim of achieving consensus. The practical inputs from the WTO Secretariat and delegates gave me a better handle on how to manoeuvre around the landmines of negotiations.”

The course was closed by Mr. Jorge Castro, Chief of Section, Course Design and Training Section, on behalf of Ms. Bridget Chilala, Director of the WTO's Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation. Castro applauded the participants for remaining focused and engaged through the entire course despise the intensive programme.

From the start, the course included a careful assessment of participation and a written assignment to which all participants provided submissions. “I commend you for your commitment and cooperation to gain not only the best experience but also certification from this course,” he said.

In a series of interactive sessions centred on case studies, simulations, and exercises, including hands-on use of WTO databases and analytical tools available online, participants expanded their knowledge of analytical and negotiating skills on both legal and economic aspects of WTO rules and discipline. Participants were briefed on the “Geneva Package”, the results of the 12th Ministerial Conference on 12-17 June and gained first-hand experience by attending WTO meetings such as the Trade Policy Review of Ghana and the General Council.

Details of the ATPC are provided in the Course booklet and the Final programme.

Further information on WTO technical assistance and training can be found here.