Where Systems Change Meets Joyful Collaboration: Reflections from Kigali

Last month in Kigali, Rwanda, I had the privilege of joining colleagues from across Africa at the June Convening of The Education Collaborative. Against the serene Rwandan backdrop, we came together to contemplate the future of higher education on the continent.

From the opening Rwandan dance, that reminded me of the power of culture to connect and uplift, to brilliantly led and facilitated conversations in breakout rooms, the convening was a timely reminder that systems change can combine strategic thinking and joyful collaboration.

We explored practical pathways to center the student experience, to embed entrepreneurial mindsets across academic journeys, and to build institutions that nurture opportunity recognition, critical thinking, and resilience. We looked at what works: cross-disciplinary learning, experiential modules, community collaboration, and structured mentoring.

In sessions and over shared coffee, I was reminded that in addition to building ventures, entrepreneurship strengthens the capacity to drive impact. Our young people deserve education systems that see them as change agents, and it was energizing to see so many students already embracing that role and so many leaders working toward that goal.

I’m grateful for the connections made, the lessons learned, and the shared vision of a continent where education transforms individuals, communities and industries.

As we move forward, I hope we continue to ask:

How might we further strengthen the design of education systems such that they empower more young Africans to lead change? How might we, together, keep aligning, reflecting, and acting for more of the positive Africa that was so evident at the gathering and of the Africa we know is possible? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Thank you to The Education Collaborative team, partners, and every colleague who made these conversations so enriching.

I left Kigali inspired.