Rita Odafe
Kingsley Moghalu
In a recent development, African leaders have named Professor Kingsley Moghalu, a notable figure and former deputy governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank, as the first president of the African School of Governance (ASG) located in Kigali, Rwanda. This decision came after a global selection process, and his tenure began on October 1, 2024.
Announced over the weekend, the establishment of ASG marks the launch of a unique, independent graduate school focused on public policy and governance, aimed at tackling the continent’s significant governance challenges.
The institution seeks to equip future leaders with valuable skills and knowledge necessary for steering Africa towards a prosperous future by offering high-quality education in public policy and governance.
The foundation of ASG was laid by President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, with contributions from several African leaders, academics, and philanthropists committed to enhancing governance throughout Africa. The Mastercard Foundation provides support for ASG.
ASG also boasts a strategic partnership with the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at Singapore’s National University.
Its independent Governing Board is led by Makhtar Diop, the Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and former Minister of Finance in Senegal. Other prominent board members include Donald Kaberuka, ex-President of the African Development Bank; Kishore Mahbubani, previous Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School; Hajer Gueldich, Legal Counsel at the African Union; and Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board.
As the inaugural president, Professor Moghalu brings extensive experience in public policy and governance, having previously held senior roles in the United Nations for 17 years and teaching at prestigious universities such as Harvard, Oxford, and Tufts University. He is also a published author, known for his insightful work, *Emerging Africa: How the Global Economy’s ‘Last Frontier’ Can Prosper and Matter*.
Regarding Moghalu’s new role, Makhtar Diop expressed enthusiasm, stating: “We are thrilled to welcome Kingsley Moghalu as President of ASG. His impressive record in leadership and influence in policy matters will be crucial for shaping a transformative institution that cultivates a new generation of leaders equipped to address the21st-century challenges facing Africa.”
Upon his appointment, Professor Moghalu remarked: “I resonate with the vision of an enhanced Africa led by competent governance, and I am privileged to contribute to realizing this goal with ASG.”
The ASG plans to provide a range of academic and research programs tailored to bridge the gaps in governance and leadership across the continent. These will include a Master of Public Administration (MPA), an Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA), and short executive courses aimed at developing specific leadership capabilities.
Furthermore, the school will feature programmes like the Young Leaders Programme (YLP) and the Senior Leadership Fellowship (SLF) for emerging and veteran leaders, ensuring comprehensive support for leadership training at all career stages.
ASG will also open four specialized research centers focused on various aspects of governance, including home-grown governance innovations, African history and leadership, trade and regional integration, and technology in governance.
