“When I commenced my studies with IACA, I had scanty knowledge on what corruption is all about. I did not have the requisite information on how corruption is treated at an international level. I did not know how various scholars have defined corruption with relevant theories, especially in the developing world. With my enrolment in IACA, I now understand various aspects of corruption such as causes, definitions, collective action at international level, and anti-corruption measures. As a Judicial Officer, I am now able to understand both the prosecution and defense when they appear before me. I am able to make reasoned judgments and orders based on the acquired knowledge from my MACS Studies. I am hopeful that this trend will continue as I am now dealing with some pending cases of this nature.

“ work as a public prosecutor in the Anti-Corruption and Public Funds Crimes Prosecution, where we investigate and prosecute corruption cases. This programme was a true and comprehensive educational experience for me, as I listened to experienced specialists in the field of anti-corruption and collective action, and this enhanced my knowledge of international standards to improve transparency, integrity, and anti-corruption. Furthermore, I learned about effective worldwide experiences and practices for combating corruption, and the programme is comprehensive and well-designed, beyond my expectations. I strongly advise everyone interested in or working in the subject of anti-corruption to participate in this programme.

“The experience/knowledge from the MACS Programme has been intriguing as my understanding of the concept of Corruption and Anti-Corruption strategies is now deeper and broadened. The quality and expertise of all the resource persons selected for the programme made me want to learn more and more as they delivered their courses with passion. My capacity in the field of anti-corruption strategies has been reinforced. I noticed this firsthand when I had the privilege of sharing my views on tackling corruption with a team of experts from the office of the Inspector General, United States International Development Corporation held in my last office, the Special Fraud Unit, Lagos, Nigeria, sometime in April 2023. Just recently, the Commissioner of Police Akwa Ibom State Police Command in Nigeria requested me to join an NGO group currently working on a bill to establish a National Institute that will assist in eliminating corruption in Nigeria. I was directed to contribute inputs on how to fight corruption, and the information shared was made possible by the quality of knowledge shared with us at IACA. Though I might not be able to change the culture of my environment, the knowledge I have gotten is potent to bring about change in the system where I find myself

“The practical and technical skills learned allowed me to enhance my skill set to face the challenges imposed by corruption. Skills that I have already put into practice. I look forward to acquiring a more profound understanding of corruption and compliance, as well as tools for designing and implementing successful anti-corruption strategies.

“Through rigorous assignments, group work and classes taught by experienced professors, the programme allows you to learn all about anti-corruption and compliance through a multi-disciplinary approach, while getting to know professionals coming from many regions of the world and different backgrounds. The programme is certainly providing me with the skills and the confidence I need to better serve clients' needs.

“My initial reaction to the online delivery of the MACS 2020 was one of apprehension and doubt as to its effectiveness. But IACA proved me wrong! I am able to engage fully with fellow students, IACA staff, and expert lecturers. The programme has equipped me with vast knowledge, skills, and networks to help me in my quest of combatting financial crimes. I highly recommend IACA's MACS programme as it allows me to put theory into practice.

“Prior to joining IACA, I was an ordinary staff of an important anti-corruption body in Afghanistan. My knowledge of corruption was limited. However, after joining the MACS Programme, I started to think differently and was promoted to Legal Advisor and Media Manager at UNISHKA Research Service Inc., a US-based anti-corruption company. My studies at IACA helped me get an excellent job while being a refugee in a third country. Thanks to IACA!

“I encourage anti-corruption bodies, civil society, and the private sector worldwide to benefit from IACA’s Programmes to build their knowledge in the fight against corruption.

“Before the IMACC Programme, my understanding of corruption was mostly theoretical, learned through postgraduate studies. The programme has significantly deepened my knowledge and capacity through coursework, case studies, and interactive live sessions featuring experts in the field. I have started applying this new understanding in my professional role, successfully recommending evidence-based solutions for internal controls within my organization. The IMACC Programme is having a positive impact on both my personal and professional life, challenging me to step up to IACA’s standards, allowing me to meet people from all over the world with similar interests, and equipping me with the knowledge and tools I need for my career.

“The IMACC Programme is distinguished by its distinctive and all-encompassing nature. Thus far, my experience has proven to be both memorable and valuable, as it affords me the chance to engage with esteemed professors who are leaders in the subject of compliance as well as interact with peers hailing from varied cultural backgrounds. I have successfully begun incorporating my acquired knowledge into practical applications, thereby gaining a competitive advantage. The IMACC Programme has proven to be a valuable resource for acquiring knowledge and fostering confidence within my field of expertise. I take great pride in my affiliation with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) and am very driven to delve into the study of optimal strategies for eliminating corruption.

“I have experienced other programmes, and research courses but discovered that they are not as realistic or comprehensive enough to execute as policies that can otherwise support and transform the lives of people we serve. The IMACC Programme, however, offers unique modules whose objectives are not only relevant but are also in touch with reality. As a magistrate, I understood corruption from the punitive aspect. Now I not only possess a deeper understanding of corruption, but I am more confident to act against it.

“The IMACC Programme has been an eye opener considering that in recent years my country has been caught up in corruption scandals in government departments, state owned enterprises and private companies. Due to the knowledge gained at IACA, I managed to join a team of lawyers who were advising and representing the head of the Anti-Corruption body in Malawi. I also became the AML compliance officer at the firm I work for after enrolling in the IMACC Programme.

“With the knowledge gained at IACA, I have been able to review anti-corruption laws and institutions in my country and identified loopholes that condoned corruption. Undertaking the International Master in Anti-Corruption Compliance and Collective Action Programme at IACA is one of the best decisions I have made in my life.

“It has been a unique experience where I have had the opportunity to have a solid learning structure, in a multicultural environment, focused on fighting against corruption. It was incredible how the institution (IACA) got prepared for conducting the course entirely online, with such strong academic and technical support, that made me feel part of the campus, even though I was far from it.

“This Master in Anti-Corruption and Diplomacy (MACD) is a rare opportunity for me to be able to coordinate the cause and effect of conflict with the cause and effect of corruption, identify new strategies, and attempt to build the bridge between the two using diplomacy as the method. With so many global needs being prioritized, navigating my industry, oil and gas, has become chaotic. This holistic understanding of corruption and diplomacy permits us to remain focused and on task while constantly advancing our commitment to support a sustainable, peaceful world.

“The MACD has positively surprised me regarding the high level of lectures and its scope that goes far beyond the usual subjects. For example, it has been amazing to attend the Conference of State Parties of UNCAC and clearly understand the various nuances of corruption and align it with the academic perspective or study cyber matters while I am currently involved in political negotiations on the future related international convention.

“My experience in the programme is very diverse, networking with students from different parts of the world enhances the knowledge of how to deal with corruption and promote compliance systems. Also, the professors are experts and academics who can give you a considerable amount of information and help you from a conceptual and practical point of view.

“My experience in the master's degree allows me to learn important aspects of the fight against corruption in the public sector, which is where I work, but it also helps me to innovate in the private sector. The lecturers and students with whom I share classes help me to grow not only professionally, but also personally.

“The ACCA Programme marks a before and after in my life on how to deal more efficiently with corruption. In practice, it has helped me plan concrete actions, in theory it has provided me with a lot of information on replicable practices. Collective Action is definitely an efficient tool to fight against corruption.

“My knowledge and skills in these areas may be more likely to see opportunities for implementing specific initiatives and to have a better understanding of how to design and implement effective strategies for addressing anti-corruption and collective action challenges. Additionally, with these skills, I may be more likely to have access to relevant networks and resources that can help me to implement initiatives in the field.