Shaping the Future of Higher Education for Innovation and Sustainable Development in Africa
The International Association of Universities (IAU) was proud to participate in the 16th Quadrennial General Conference of the Association of African Universities (AAU), taking place this week in Rabat, Morocco. Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Higher Education for Innovation and Sustainable Development in Africa,” the conference provides a vital platform for reflection, exchange, and collaboration among higher education leaders from across the African continent and beyond.
Hosted by IAU Member institution UM6P – Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, in collaboration with Mohammed V University (UM5), the conference gathered a diverse range of stakeholders to explore solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing African higher education today. It emphasizes the importance of innovation, inclusion, and partnerships to drive sustainable development and achieve the aspirations set out in the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
IAU Board Members are actively contributing their expertise to the programme:
Dr. Jouhaina Gherib, Vice President of IAU and UNESCO Chair Holder at Université de La Manouba, Tunisia chaired Plenary XII: Stakeholders' Engagement
Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, chaired Plenary IX: Stakeholders' Engagement
Prof. Sunungurai Chingarande, Vice-Chancellor of the Women's University in Africa, chaired Session 4B: Women’s Contribution to Higher Education in Africa.
The General Conference reaffirms the AAU’s role as a key convener of higher education institutions on the continent, promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and policy dialogue. It underscores the critical role African universities play as engines of transformation and resilience in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
During the opening ceremony, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo was formally recognized as the AAU Ambassador for Gender Equity and Social Inclusion. This honor acknowledges her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in African higher education.
The IAU remains committed to supporting regional and global collaboration in higher education and is honoured to engage in this important gathering to amplify the voices of African institutions and advocate for inclusive and sustainable academic development.
