THE Africa Universities Summit 2026

Memo

With more than 400 million voices, young people in Africa are dynamic and ambitious to succeed. The THE Africa Universities Summit 2026, taking place 30-31 March in Nairobi, Kenya, will explore how to cascade and amplify regional growth and innovation across the continent by expanding its pool of human capital. The event will explore four themes: Addressing world challengesUniting global and local collaborations to tackle today’s most pressing challenges, harnessing research and innovation to deliver sustainable solutions and inspire university leadership in times of change. Innovation, entrepreneurship and start-upsEmpowering entrepreneurial mindsets and bolstering digital skills to fuel innovation, strengthening start-up ecosystems and unlocking the continent’s vast potential for sustainable economic growth. Work readiness and skills developmentShaping future-ready graduates through employer partnerships, innovative curricula and tailored support to help students thrive in their academic and professional journeys. EDI and gender equality in higher educationDriving inclusion and diversity by removing barriers, fostering belonging and championing gender equality to create institutions that truly reflect their societies. Across the two days, delegates will attend keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops exploring these themes in more depth through sessions including: - Growing ambition: Building university preparedness for Africa's human capital potential- Instilling a start-up mindset among staff and students across Kenya- Smashing the glass ceiling - ensuring gender equality is central to institutional success- Global partnerships to support institutional impact and competitive edge- Scaling Africa's research excellence- AI in African higher education The event will host 350+ attendees, 150+ organisations and universities and 80+ speakers including: John Gyapong, Secretary-General, African Research Universities AllianceChérifa Abdelbaki, Unesco Chairholder and Research Programme CoordinatorLetlhokwa Mpedi, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of JohannesburgTonny Omwansa, Chief Executive Officer, Kenya National Innovation AgencyCaroline Nyaga, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Women in STEAM Initiative Book today and access the early-bird discount before Friday 27 February 2026 and save $150. Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3484984-0?pid=5569  Date and Time: Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:00 - Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:45 Venue details: Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya   Category: Conferences Price:Standard ticket: KES 399.00