Introduction to ASG

The African School of Governance (ASG) is a leading institution in public policy and leadership education, dedicated to empowering a new generation of purpose-driven African leaders. With a foundation rooted in African perspectives and global standards, ASG is committed to cultivating leaders who can address the complex challenges of the 21st century, both on the continent and worldwide.

African History

Our History

In 2022, H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, and H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, initiated the idea of establishing a graduate-level institution designed to offer world-class public policy, and engagement programs to meet the diverse needs of leaders across Africa. The goal was to cultivate a new generation of purpose-driven leaders equipped with the mindsets, skills and knowledge required to address Africa’s development opportunities in the 21st century.

In September 2022, a distinguished advisory group was convened to develop the concept, refining the vision and goals for what would become the African School of Governance (ASG). Joining forces with the Mastercard Foundation, a working team was mobilised to collaborate with external technical experts to create the strategic and business planning model for the institution.

This process highlighted a significant gap in public policy education and implementation across Africa, revealing a need for enhanced research, evidence-based policymaking, strategic thinking, and leadership mindsets. These areas are critical for cultivating home-grown solutions to drive Africa’s development ambitions and ensure meaningful engagement in global affairs.

What we offer

The African School of Governance (ASG) provides a comprehensive and dynamic educational environment designed to cultivate leaders in governance and public policy. Our offerings include a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, executive education programs, and research opportunities that empower students with the knowledge and skills to excel in government, private sector, security, media, civil society, and research roles.

Through a curriculum grounded in African insights and expertise, ASG
shapes critical thought and fosters policy engagement to address the pressing issues facing Africa and the global community.

Vision & Mission

ASG’s vision is to nurture a prosperous and peaceful Africa where purpose-driven leaders are equipped with the mindsets, knowledge, and skills to drive sustainable development for all.

ASG’s mission is to nurture leaders to drive Africa’s sustainable development by providing innovative public policy education, 
cutting-edge research, and a platform for policy engagement that fosters transformative governance tailored to the continent’s 
unique values and opportunities.

Our Values

LEADERSHIP

Leading with vision, integrity, mindsets and purpose to transform the continent.

EXCELLENCE

Striving for the best in education, governance and academic standards.

aFRICA

Inspired by the histories, dreams and experiences of Africa’s peoples.

DETERMINATION

Driving forward changes to take on Africa’s biggest challenges and opportunities.

ENGAGED

Listening and responding to the needs of people, experts and governments.

RESOURCEFUL

Combining knowledge and talent from across the continent and the world.

Accreditation and Partnerships

The African School of Governance (ASG) is officially accredited and has been granted legal personality by the Government of Rwanda under Ministerial Order Nº 001/MINEDUC/2025, effective 6th January 2025. This accreditation reinforces the credibility and quality of our academic programmes, empowering us to deliver transformative education in public policy, leadership, and governance.

ASG’s partnerships with prestigious institutions enhance the quality and reach of our programs. We are proud to collaborate with the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) at the National University of Singapore, one of the world’s leading public policy schools.

Looking ahead, ASG will actively pursue international affiliations with other leading institutions worldwide, ensuring our students and faculty remain connected to a global network of expertise and innovation.

Leadership

Founders

His Excellency Paul Kagame

President of the Republic of Rwanda

H.E. Paul Kagame has been a transformative leader of Rwanda, turning the nation into a model of stability, economic growth, and technological advancement. Under his leadership, Rwanda has achieved inclusive growth and sustainable development, becoming one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. A cornerstone of Rwanda’s social transformation has been the implementation of homegrown solutions—innovative approaches tailored to the nation’s unique challenges and opportunities—which have fostered resilience and self-reliance.

Kagame’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and innovation have been key to Rwanda’s transformation. Beyond Rwanda, his influence is felt throughout Africa. Since 2022, he has served as the Commonwealth Chair-in-Office, playing a key role in fostering cooperation among member states. Additionally, as the African Union (AU) Champion for Domestic Health Financing, Kagame continues to lead the charge in strengthening health systems across Africa. His unwavering support for Pan-Africanism and his leadership in initiatives such as the African Union’s reform agenda have furthered the cause of stronger governance and unity across the continent.

As a co-founder of the African School of Governance (ASG), H.E. Paul Kagame’s visionary leadership will be a driving force in shaping the institution. His experience in fostering national development and championing institutional reform will guide ASG’s mission to nurture future African leaders who can implement sustainable governance solutions. With Kagame’s support, ASG will focus on developing leaders equipped to drive reform and innovation, not only in Africa but on the global stage.

His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn

Former Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn has made a profound impact on governance in Africa, particularly during his tenure as Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 2012 to 2018. Under his leadership, Ethiopia experienced significant economic reforms, becoming one of the continent’s fastest growing economies. His governance focused on stability, sustainable development, and fostering regional integration, while his efforts in conflict resolution, especially in the Horn of Africa, solidified his role as a key mediator. H.E. Dasalegn has also been a strong advocate for Africa’s voice on the global stage, pushing for equitable partnerships and deeper engagement with institutions like the United Nations and the African Union.

As a co-founder of the African School of Governance (ASG), and Guardian of the African School of Governance Foundation, H.E. Hailemariam’s vision, extensive experience, and commitment will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting the school’s mission. His legacy of fostering inclusive economic growth and development, peace-building, and regional cooperation will directly influence ASG’s approach to cultivating the next generation of African leaders. Through his leadership, ASG will be guided by principles of governance that are not only globally relevant but also deeply rooted in Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities.

In addition to his time in politics, H.E. Hailemariam previous served in different academic and administrative capacities with the Arba Minch Water Technology Institute (now Arba Minch University) for 13 years, including as the Dean of the Water Technology Institute. He currently holds a range of board and leadership positions with other African and international institutions.

THE GOVERNING Board

Mr. Makhtar Diop
Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and former Minister of Finance and Economy of Senegal.
Dr. Donald Kaberuka
Former President of the African Development Bank.
Professor Hajer Gueldich
Former Professor at the University of Carthage & Legal Counsel of the African Union.
Mr. Kishore Mahbubani
Former Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore.
Mr. Francis Gatare
Senior Advisor, Office of the President of the Republic of Rwanda.

Prof. Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu

President of the African School of Governance (ASG)

Professor Kingsley Moghalu, a globally recognised leader in governance, public policy, and economic transformation, is the inaugural President of the African School of Governance (ASG). With an extensive background that includes serving as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, founding the Institute for Governance and Economic Transformation (IGET), holding faculty roles at such prestigious institutions as The Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy at Tufts University and the University of Oxford and a decorated career in the United Nations, Professor Moghalu brings unparalleled expertise to ASG. Under his leadership, ASG is poised to become a driving force in governance innovation and policy reform across Africa

Mr. Mark Nkurunziza

Vice President, Finance and Operations

Mark Nkurunziza brings over 25 years of financial leadership experience to ASG. He has held key roles at MTN Rwanda, Rwanda Development Board, and RwandAir, excelling in financial management, strategic planning, and operational efficiency to advance impactful and sustainable development initiatives.

Professor Anna Lucy Mdee

Acting Vice-President of Academic Affairs

Currently Professor of Politics of Global Development at the University of Leeds, UK, Prof. Mdee is a seasoned academic leader, teacher and researcher whose work has spanned various aspects of development in Africa including water security and sustainable development, informal workers and social protection, local governance and service delivery, and gender mainstreaming. She obtained a PhD in International Development at the University of Bradford, the M.A. in Social Sciences at Open University, and M.A in Social Anthropology at Cambridge University.

Dr. Lite J. Nartey

Director of Executive Education and Associate Professor

Dr. Nartey holds a PhD in Management from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, a MPA in Public & Nonprofit Management and Policy from the Wagner Graduate School of Public Service at New York University (NYU), and a B.Sc (First Class Honours) in Biological Sciences from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. Dr. Nartey is an Affiliate Professor of Strategy at INSEAD and was the Inaugural Distinguished Fellow of the INSEAD Africa Initiative. She teaches in INSEAD’s MBA and Executive Education programs and has extensive experience in designing and delivering extensive education programs. Dr. Nartey was Assistant Professor at University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, and previously served as Visiting Scholar at Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University and at Stanford University.

Dr. Jane Adhiambo Chiroma

Head of Quality Assurance, Acting Academic Registrar of ASG, and Associate Professor

Dr. Chiroma holds a PhD in Education Policy from Stellenbosch University in South Africa, a Masters in Curriculum Development from the same university, and a B.A. in Theology from the Jos ECWA Theological Seminary in Nigeria. Dr. Chiroma has extensive experience in quality assurance, curriculum development, digital education and educational technology. She is the Director, Center of Online Teaching and Learning and Senior Lecturer in Leadership at Pan-Africa Christian University in Nairobi, Kenya.

Ngozichukwu C. Njemanze

Director of Strategic Planning and Chief of Staff to the ASG President

A Certified Governance Auditor, Bank Examiner, Chartered Secretary and Administrator. Njemanze is a corporate governance thought leader and was Principal Manager in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s Financial System Stability Directorate. She previously worked in the World Bank Group’s Legal Vice-Presidency as a Legal Associate for five years at the Bank’s Headquarters in Washington DC. Ms. Njemanze will assist the ASG President in strategic planning and policy development, strategy execution, risk management, and provision of support to corporate governance structures. She obtained the LL.M degree from Harvard Law School, the MBA from Kogod School of Business at American University in Washington DC, and the LL.B. (Second Class Upper) Hons. from the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus.

Aissatou Diajhate

Director of External Affairs and Acting Head of Admissions

With her strong background in institutional partnerships, philanthropy and student engagement, Ms. Diajhate will lead strategic initiatives to enhance the university’s external relations and streamline inaugural student admission processes. She holds a Master of Development Administration (MDA) from Western Michigan University and B.A. in English from Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal. Ms. Diajhate was the Chief of Staff & Advisor to the President & CEO of Mastercard Foundation in Toronto, Canada. She previously served as Country Representative of Mastercard Foundation in Ghana, Director of Programs at the Stephen Lewis Foundation, and as Director of Admissions at Suffolk University’s inaugural campus in Africa headquarters in Dakar, Senegal.

Connect with us

Stay connected with ASG through our various platforms. Whether you are a prospective student, an alumnus, or a partner, we invite you to join our community and participate in our events and programs. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and insights into governance and public policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL

The African School of Governance (ASG) is a graduate-level institution that envisions a prosperous and peaceful Africa where purpose-driven leaders drive sustainable development for all.

Its mission is to empower Africa’s leaders through innovative public policy education and research that fosters transformative governance. ASG’s approach is grounded in Africa’s distinct values and opportunities, aiming to shape governance solutions that meet the continent’s unique needs.

ASG’s programs target a diverse group of leaders, including early and mid-career professionals, as well as established figures in governance, aiming to nurture impactful leadership that drives Africa’s sustainable development.

ASG distinguishes itself from its peers by four key features: Mindset-focus; emphasising the importance of a worldview and value system as a driving force of societal transformation, Pan-African student and faculty recruitment, ensuring diversity and inclusion across the continent; a genuinely African curriculum rooted in Africa’s history and experiences; hands-on practical learning through case studies and fieldwork; and a lifelong learning ecosystem that supports leaders at every stage of their career. By combining education, research, and policy-making, ASG strengthens its role as a powerful knowledge base for leadership and governance across Africa.

Yes. The African School of Governance (ASG) is officially accredited and has been granted legal personality by the Government of Rwanda under Ministerial Order Nº 001/MINEDUC/2025, effective 6th January 2025. This accreditation reinforces the credibility and quality of our academic programmes, empowering us to deliver transformative education in public policy, leadership, and governance.

Yes, ASG is accredited, our programs meet international standards and are recognized by academic and professional institutions globally. Our offerings are competitive and impactful worldwide.

  • Education: ASG will offer a range of degree and non-degree programs, including Master’s and Executive Master’s degrees in Public Administration, executive education courses, the Young Leaders Programme and the Senior Ledearship Fellowship. These programs focus on developing leadership skills, governance expertise, and real-world problem-solving capabilities.
  • Research: ASG emphasizes evidence-based research that addresses Africa’s unique challenges. The institution is committed to producing impactful research that informs policy and governance decisions, focusing on areas like regional integration, government delivery capabilities, and home-grown innovations.
  • Policy Engagement: ASG will be actively involved in shaping public policy across the continent. Through policy briefs, roundtables, and conferences, ASG engages stakeholders from various sectors to collaborate on solutions to Africa’s governance issues, fostering a strong connection between academia and real-world policy-making.