Bold Steps for African Higher Education at AAU Conference
The 16th Quadrennial General Conference of the Association of African Universities (AAU) took place from 21 to 25 July 2025 in Rabat, Morocco. Hosted by the University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P), the conference brought together nearly 500 influential stakeholders in higher education from across the continent, including Vice-Chancellors, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and development partners.
Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Higher Education for Innovation and Sustainable Development in Africa,” the conference addressed critical issues such as Africa’s demographic surge, digital transformation, equitable access to education, and research sovereignty. “Discussions focused on bold, actionable solutions to transform African higher education systems for long-term, sustainable impact,” said Ms Neriene Garises from the NUST Office of the Registrar, who represented the University at the conference.
The event featured scientific sessions, panel discussions, and exhibitions, all focused on enhancing access to quality education, fostering innovation, and aligning curricula with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa’s Agenda 2063.
A major highlight of the conference was the election of Prof Kenneth Matengu, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Namibia, as the new President of the Governing Board of the AAU.
Looking ahead, the next major AAU gathering, the Conference of Rectors, Vice Chancellors and Presidents of African Universities (COREViP), will be hosted in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2027.
