Rwanda is set to become a focal point for higher education discussions as it prepares to host the Times Higher Education (THE) Africa Universities Summit 2025 in Kigali from March 18 to 20. Under the theme "United Leadership: Harnessing African Education for Sustainable Growth," the summit will bring together over 350 delegates and 100+ speakers from across Africa and beyond to explore how universities can drive sustainable development, digital transformation, and economic progress.
The summit comes at a crucial time for African higher education, with universities playing an increasingly vital role in research, innovation, and economic mobility. However, institutions across the continent face challenges such as strengthening global partnerships, improving digital infrastructure, and aligning academic programs with workforce needs. The Kigali summit will provide a platform for leaders in academia, policy, and industry to exchange ideas and propose solutions that will shape the future of education in Africa.
Several distinguished speakers will headline the event, including Dr. Philip Cotton, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Global Health Equity; Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg; and Dr. DeWayne Frazier, President and Vice-Chancellor of the American University of Nigeria. Their insights will help guide discussions on how universities can contribute to sustainable growth through research, policy, and collaboration with various sectors.
The summit will focus on four key themes: equitable partnerships, sustainability in higher education, digital transformation, and research and employability. Delegates will explore how universities can foster strong international collaborations, integrate sustainability into education, embrace digital innovation, and ensure that academic programs equip graduates with skills for the job market.
Beyond discussions, the summit will feature data-driven insights with specialized masterclasses led by THE’s expert data scientists. These sessions will provide an in-depth look at the THE Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2025, which highlights universities excelling in interdisciplinary research, and the THE Impact Rankings 2025, which measures institutions’ contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Phil Baty, THE’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, emphasized the importance of the summit, noting that Africa is central to the future of global higher education and innovation. He highlighted that the event will not only showcase Africa’s growing influence in academia but also foster partnerships that will drive long-term progress.
As Rwanda takes the lead in hosting this prestigious gathering, THE Africa Universities Summit 2025 is expected to be a transformative event, setting the stage for the future of higher education on the continent.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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