Africa’s governance journey enters new phase of transformation

In a significant stride towards transforming governance in Africa, the African School of Governance Foundation has unveiled the African School of Governance, a graduate institution committed to advancing public policy education, research, and engagement across the continent. The move is spearheaded by Professor Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu, President and Vice Chancellor of the African School of Governance. The establishment of the ASG comes at a crucial time when governance and leadership are identified as the primary challenges faced by the continent. The co-founders of the ASG, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, have underscored the urgent need for competent governance and leadership in Africa. The ASG aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped with the mindset, knowledge, and skills necessary to address Africa's challenges and opportunities in the 21st century, making it an African century. One of the key features of the African School of Governance is its emphasis on localizing, owning, and customizing governance for Africans, by Africans. The institution advocates for an African-centric approach to governance, highlighting the need for an African narrative, worldview, and confidence in the African identity. By focusing on Africa's context-specific issues and promoting homegrown innovations in governance, the ASG aims to shift away from foreign solutions and address the governance issues prevailing in the continent. Effective governance at the national level is seen as a vital precursor to attracting foreign investment and creating a conducive business environment for African countries to prosper. The ASG will prioritize leadership development as a cornerstone of its mission, aiming to nurture purpose-driven leaders who are committed to driving progress and societal development. By offering innovative and Africa-focused curricula, the institution seeks to provide a unique educational experience that diverges from traditional, Western-centric public policy programs. For instance, the ASG plans to delve into Africa's international relations, exploring how African nations can strategically engage with each other and the rest of the world from the perspective of Africa's interests. Unity and shared purpose are crucial elements in advancing effective governance and leadership on the continent. The ASG intends to instill a collective African mindset among its students, emphasizing a shared destiny and coherent vision for the future. Through various programs such as the Young Leaders Program and the Senior Leaders Fellowship, the institution aims to shape a generation of leaders who embody a purpose-driven mindset and are dedicated to realizing a prosperous and unified Africa. The ASG's vision has garnered widespread support globally, including from Western countries. Institutions and leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, and other nations have expressed eagerness to collaborate with the ASG, recognizing the innovative approach to governance education that the institution offers. As the ASG sets out to redefine governance education in Africa, the establishment of the African School of Governance marks a significant milestone in the continent's journey towards effective leadership and governance.