Diploma in Municipal Studies with VNGI

In collaboration with VNG International (VNGI)

Program Overview

The Lifelong Learning Center at NDU, in partnership with VNG International—the international cooperation agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities, proudly launches the Diploma in Municipal Studies Program.

The 2025 municipal elections brought a new generation of leaders, including first-time officials, women, and youth, creating a unique opportunity to strengthen municipal governance capacity. This diploma is designed to capitalize on this post-election momentum, equipping municipal practitioners with the tools, networks, and applied knowledge needed for resilient and inclusive local governance.

Aligned with the Sustainable Development through Local Governance (SDLG) initiative—funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs—the program combines international best practices with local realities, preparing participants to drive positive change in their municipalities.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

Apply advanced concepts of good governance and leadership in Lebanese municipal contexts.
Demonstrate effective financial management and accountability practices aligned with international standards.
Integrate environmental compliance and sustainability strategies into local development plans.
Strengthen inclusivity and citizen engagement, with a focus on youth, women, and vulnerable groups.
Collaborate within peer networks to share municipal best practices across Lebanon and beyond.

Target Audience

The diploma is open to a diverse group of professionals with a strong commitment to public service, including:

Mayors and municipal council members
Municipal employees and staff of unions of municipalities
Civil society and NGO practitioners engaged in local governance, refugee response, or community development
Professionals with ties to the public sector seeking to expand their role in municipal governance

Special emphasis is placed on ensuring the active participation of women and youth, in line with Lebanon’s evolving municipal landscape.

Why Enroll in This Diploma?

By joining this program, you will:

Gain cutting-edge municipal management skills tailored to Lebanon’s governance challenges.
Build strong peer networks with municipal leaders, NGOs, and public sector professionals.
Earn a globally recognized certificate backed by international institutions.
Contribute to the creation of resilient, inclusive, and transparent municipalities at a crucial moment in Lebanon’s democratic journey.

Program Highlights

Expert Faculty and Steering Committee Oversight: Guided by a joint Steering Committee representing NDU and VNGI, ensuring academic rigor and policy relevance.
International Recognition: Graduates receive certificates bearing the logos of NDU, VNGI, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Blended Learning Format: Flexible combination of in-person workshops and online learning.
Networking and Visibility: Graduation ceremony and media outreach opportunities.

Core modules, learning objectives, target audience, and registration remain identical to the base version.

Program Structure and Content

The diploma consists of four thematic modules delivered over eight weeks (October – early December 2025).
Note: The modules below are based on the program’s thematic focus (governance, leadership, financial management, and environmental compliance) and may be updated.

1. Municipal Governance and Leadership
2. Public Financial Management
3. Environmental Compliance and Sustainability
4. Applied Case Studies and Capstone Project

Key Information

Program Dates: October – early December 2025
Duration: 8 weeks (two cohorts planned)
Cohort Size: Approximately 20 participants per cohort (40 total)
Format: Blended learning (in-person workshops and online learning)
Fee: USD 150 (sponsored rate)
Payment Deadline: September 25, 2025
Seats: Limited – selection will prioritize role relevance, regional diversity, and the inclusion of women and youth

Diploma in Municipal Studies with VNGI