Islamabad (TDI): Professor Dr. Atle Hetland, Norwegian Academician, Former Editor Norwegian Universities Press, and Head of Development Studies at University of Oslo, has been honoured with the prestigious Global Ambassador Award 2024 in recognition of his exceptional services in the fields of education, diplomacy, media and consultancy.
The 6th Global Ambassador Awards Ceremony was organized in Islamabad by The Diplomatic Insight Group, a global public diplomacy institution in Pakistan, with the presence of Ambassadors, diplomatic corps, Parliamentarians, government officials, business leaders, academics, media, and civil society members.
Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, graced the occasion as the chief guest.
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Dr. Farhat Asif, Chairperson of the Diplomatic Insight Group, welcomed distinguished guests and underscored the organization’s commitment to promoting global collaboration and diplomacy.
Professor Dr. Atle Hetland, a distinguished social scientist, has over five decades of experience in development, education, and humanitarian initiatives across Europe, Africa, North America, and Asia.
With advanced degrees from Norway and Sweden, including a PhD from Stockholm, he began his career as Editor of the Norwegian Universities Press and later served as a diplomat at the Norwegian Embassy in Tanzania.
As the founding Head of Development Studies at the University of Oslo, he established what is now the Centre for Development and Environment (SUM).
In Pakistan, Professor Hetland’s work has been transformative, particularly in education for Afghan refugees.
His acclaimed series Learning Away from Home and The Know Norway Book foster cross-cultural understanding and are key resources in Islamabad.
A prolific writer, Professor Hetland contributes weekly columns to The Nation, addressing social and diplomatic issues. His former columns in Dawn offered insights into Norway-Pakistan relations.
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He is currently writing a book on Scandinavian religion for an international audience.
Professor Hetland’s lifelong commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation between nations continues to enrich both Pakistan and Norway, leaving a lasting legacy in global education and cultural exchange.
