Protocol, Etiquette and Event Management

COURSE DURATION 10 DAYS

Date: 9^th – 20^th November 2026

 

 

Course Overview

This intensive training course equips participants with the skills and knowledge required to effectively manage protocol, uphold professional and diplomatic etiquette, and successfully plan and execute formal events. The course blends traditional standards with modern practices, focusing on corporate, government, and international settings.

 

As global interaction and high-profile events increase in complexity, mastering protocol and etiquette is essential for creating positive impressions, avoiding cultural missteps, and ensuring seamless experiences. This course aligns with current trends, including cross-cultural diplomacy, virtual/hybrid events, VIP management, and brand-aligned corporate hosting.

 

Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand protocol principles for various events and jurisdictions
• Apply etiquette rules in professional, diplomatic, and corporate contexts
• Plan and coordinate national, corporate, and international events
• Manage VIP arrangements, seating, invitations, and cultural expectations
• Respond to unexpected scenarios with tact and professionalism

 

Who Should Attend?

• Government officials and public servants
• Corporate communication officers
• Event planners and protocol officers
• Administrative and executive assistants
• Diplomats and consular staff

 

Personal Impact

• Develop confidence in high-level social and professional settings
• Learn to handle VIPs, dignitaries, and multicultural audiences
• Enhance presentation, hosting, and interpersonal skills

 

Organizational Impact:

• Ensure professional conduct and representation in official functions
• Improve brand image through well-executed events and engagements
• Reduce risks associated with protocol breaches and event mismanagement

 

Training Methodology

These instructor-led training sessions are delivered using a blended learning approach and include presentations, guided practical exercises, web-based tutorials, and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience as professionals and trainers in these fields. All facilitation and course materials are offered in English. Participants should be reasonably proficient in the language.

 

This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered to our Alardi Centre or to a convenient location.

 

Course Level: Foundation

 

Course Outline:

Module 1: Foundations of Protocol and Etiquette

• Definition and significance
• Historical context and modern applications
• Key terms and protocol hierarchies
• Institutional vs. social protocol

Case Study: Diplomatic reception vs. business conference

 

Module 2: Professional Etiquette and Grooming

• Workplace etiquette and communication styles
• Personal presentation, attire, and grooming standards
• Handshakes, greetings, and introductions
• Gender sensitivity and generational awareness

Case Study: Hosting a multi-generational corporate board meeting

 

Module 3: Diplomatic and Government Protocol

• State ceremonies, flag etiquette, and national symbols
• Order of precedence
• Diplomatic titles, address forms, and credentials
• International protocol norms (UN, AU, Commonwealth)

Case Study: Organizing a state dinner or ministerial visit

 

Module 4: Cross-Cultural Etiquette and Global Protocol

• Understanding culture-based behaviors and values
• Cultural taboos and gift-giving practices
• Hosting international guests with cultural sensitivity
• Business etiquette across regions

Case Study: Navigating an Asian-African business summit

 

Module 5: Event Planning Essentials

• Event types, timelines, and objectives
• Budgeting, venue selection, logistics
• Permits, insurance, and security
• Vendor and stakeholder coordination

Case Study: Planning a national awards ceremony

 

Module 6: Protocol in Corporate Events

• Branding and corporate image in event design
• Press conferences, launches, and shareholder meetings
• Hospitality and client hosting best practices
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR) functions

Case Study: Organizing a CEO roundtable or product launch

 

Module 7: Seating, Invitations, and VIP Management

• Protocol seating arrangements (banquets, stage, boardroom)
• Types and formats of invitations
• RSVP handling and guest list management
• Managing high-profile guests and security protocols

Case Study: Seating plan and invitation for a government gala

 

Module 8: Communication, Media, and Speech Protocol

• Public speaking etiquette and script preparation
• Coordinating MCs, speeches, and protocols for addresses
• Working with media and press
• Emergency communication and response

Case Study: Speech management during an international summit

 

Module 9: Etiquette in Virtual and Hybrid Events

• Hosting and moderating virtual meetings professionally
• Online invitation and guest protocol
• Managing cultural nuances virtually
• Tools for hybrid conferencing

Case Study: Organizing a virtual policy dialogue with global participants

 

Module 10: Capstone Project and Protocol Drill Simulation

• Plan and present a full-scale event with protocol considerations
• Simulated guest reception, seating, media, and speeches
• Feedback, critique, and improvement planning
• Graduation and certification ceremony

Capstone Project: Organize a protocol-compliant event for a visiting dignitary

 

Certificate

• On successful completion of this training course, the ALARDI Africa Certificate will be issued to the participants.

Venue:

 

Kenya-Nairobi                       Cost USD 3600

UAE-Dubai                             Cost USD 4400

Date: 9^th – 20^th November 2026