If Africa’s future really depends on who’s leading it, then the African School of Governance (ASG) wants to make sure the next generation is ready—ethically, strategically, and boldly.
That’s exactly what ASG’s President and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, is passionate about. According to him, Africa doesn’t need to copy leadership models from the West.
“We need to solve our own problems with our own solutions,” he says. “That starts by training leaders who understand our context—not borrowing playbooks that don’t fit.”
So what is ASG?
Founded in Rwanda with backing from influential leaders like President Paul Kagame and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, ASG is building a high-level Pan-African institution focused on transforming governance. Its flagship programme?
A Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) built around servant leadership, ethics, and real African challenges.
Speaking in Nairobi during his continental tour, Moghalu sat down with The Star to explain what the school’s all about—and why Kenya plays a key role.
Why Kenya?
“We’re building a Pan-African network, and Kenya is central to that,” he explains. “We want Kenyan students, but we also want to work directly with government and private sector leaders through short courses.”
They’ve already met with Kenya’s Education CS and ICT PS to begin talks on partnerships.
Why should youth care?
“Because governance is everything,” Moghalu says. “Whether it's jobs, peace, or starting a business—it all depends on how your country is led. And with 70% of Africa under 30, this is your future we’re talking about.”
What makes ASG different?
“Most schools teach skills. We teach mindset,” he explains. “You can’t lead if your mindset hasn’t changed. We teach you to think ethically, act with purpose, and lead for impact.”
And the cost?
The MPA costs $15,000 per year—far lower than Ivy League schools like Harvard or Oxford. “And we offer scholarships,” Moghalu assures. “Don’t let money stop you. Apply first.”
Is it just politics as usual?
“Not at all. Politics is about power. Governance is about delivering results,” he says. “We have too many politicians. We need real leaders.”
What about influencers and digital platforms?
“Social media changed the game,” he admits. “But being an influencer doesn’t equal leadership. Young people need to think critically—ask whether the influence they’re getting is helping or harming.”
Is ethical leadership even possible in corrupt systems?
“It’s not easy, but yes. The key is accountability. When young people speak up—online, in protest, in communities—it creates pressure. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen.”
Whether it’s tackling corruption, building better systems, or just finding purpose-driven leadership, Moghalu believes the future of leadership in Africa isn’t about where you’ve studied—it’s about how you lead.
And in 10 years? “People won’t be asking if you went to Harvard,” he says. “They’ll be asking—did you go through ASG?”
Watch the full interview below:
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