ACCRA, GHANA — Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, has received the African Educationist of the Year Award at a ceremony held in Accra, Ghana.
Prof. Nawangwe was presented with the award by Sam Matekane during a high-profile event organised by African Leadership Magazine and the African Leadership Organisation.
The ceremony was presided over by Jakaya Kikwete, who chairs the board of the African Leadership Organisation.
Nawangwe attended the event in the Ghanaian capital alongside his wife, Susan.
The Makerere Vice Chancellor was recognised alongside several prominent African leaders, including John Mahama, John Kufuor and Lesotho’s Prime Minister Matekane.
In his brief acceptance speech, Nawangwe said higher education plays a crucial role in driving Africa’s transformation.
“Higher education is key to Africa’s renaissance,” he said, noting that universities must continue producing knowledge, innovation and skilled human capital needed for the continent’s development.
He also thanked the organisers for recognising leadership excellence across Africa and expressed appreciation to people around the world who voted for him for the award.
The African Educationist of the Year Award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing education and academic leadership on the continent.
Nawangwe, a professor of architecture, has led Makerere University since 2017, overseeing reforms in research, infrastructure development and international partnerships at Uganda’s oldest and largest university.