The Association of African Universities (AAU) has issued a call for a host institution for its 16th Quadrennial General Conference (QGC), slated to take place in July 2025. This esteemed gathering, which brings together representatives from member institutions, associate members, and observers, serves as the supreme authority of the Association, shaping general policies and priorities for higher education across the continent.

Scheduled to span five days, the conference provides a crucial platform for discussing common challenges and strategies for advancing higher education in Africa. The QGC comprises two main components: a business session evaluating the AAU's performance over the previous four years and outlining future programs, as well as the election of a new 15-member Board to steer the Association's affairs.

Moreover, the conference hosts scientific discussions centred around the theme and sub-themes of the biennial Conference of Rectors, Vice-Chancellors, and Rectors of African Universities (COREVIP). The 16th General Conference will coincide with the 23rd COREVIP, fostering dialogue on critical issues shaping the African higher education landscape.

Member institutions in good standing with the AAU are invited to apply for the prestigious opportunity to co-host this significant event, promising unparalleled visibility and exposure for both the host institution and the country. The AAU underscores that co-hosting the QGC facilitates high-level engagement with academic leaders, policymakers, researchers, development partners, and industry stakeholders, rendering it a highly coveted opportunity.

The host institution will assume a pivotal role in organizing the conference, contributing either financially or in-kind towards various aspects including local transportation, airport reception, traditional gifts, welcome receptions, media coverage, courtesy calls, excursion visits, secretariat services, decorations, and cultural displays.

Interested member institutions are encouraged to submit their official applications by the deadline of Friday, June 28th, 2024, to be considered for hosting the 16th Quadrennial General Conference.

This announcement follows the successful hosting of the recent Conference of Rectors and Vice-Chancellors (COREVIP) 2023 by the University of Namibia (UNAM) in Windhoek, Namibia. Themed "Advancing Excellence in African Higher Education," the conference facilitated discussions on doctoral education, institutional differentiation, partnerships, internationalization, university-industry linkages, funding, and the role of intellectual diaspora.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including university leadership, policymakers, researchers, development partners, and funding agencies, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing higher education excellence in Africa and beyond.

 

Article by RB Correspodent

Photo/AAU

https://blog.aau.org/call-for-hosting-aau-general-conference-2025/