The institute is a statutory body established through an Act of parliament in 1995. Its mandate is to conduct training in diplomacy and international relations; as well as to offer consultancies workshops and seminars in related fields. In connection with the foregoing, the institute has been conducting intensive monthly certificate courses in Diplomatic Practice, Protocol and Public Relations, which are covered in one hundred (100) contact hours. Participants from all walks of life are welcome to participate in the course.

This includes participants from Government Ministries/Departments, Banks, Private sector organizations, NGOs, Churches, Political Parties, interested individuals, etc. Participants from outside Lusaka and those outside Zambia are also welcome to participate.