KCA University Strengthens Global Academic Presence through International Leadership Programme

KCA University continues to enhance its global academic profile through active engagement in prestigious international capacity-building programmes. In February 2026, Prof. Dr. Lucy Waruguru Mburu, Dean of Research, Innovation and Outreach, participated in Part III of the DIES International Deans’ Course (IDC) Africa 2025/2026 held in Accra, Ghana.

The programme, jointly organised by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), German Rectors’ Conference, Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences and the Centre for Higher Education, convened academic leaders from across Africa and Europe to strengthen leadership and management capacity in higher education institutions.

Culmination of a Transformative Leadership Journey

Building on earlier phases of the programme—Part I in Germany and Part II conducted online—Part III in Accra marked the culmination of the course, with a strong focus on implementation, impact, and reflection.

The week-long programme featured a dynamic blend of academic sessions, policy dialogue, and experiential learning opportunities:

• The course officially opened at the University of Ghana, with keynote discussions on higher education leadership and management
• Sessions on graduate employability and future skills examined how universities can better prepare students for evolving labour markets
• A dedicated module on the entrepreneurial university, hosted at Ashesi University, explored strategies for building innovation ecosystems and strengthening university–industry linkages
• Discussions on financial management focused on sustainable funding models, resource mobilisation, and performance-based financing
• The programme concluded with reflections on sustainability in teaching, research, and institutional governance, alongside networking engagements with global partners

A key highlight of the session was the final presentation of participants’ Project Action Plans (PAPs)—institutional initiatives designed and implemented within their respective universities. Prof. Waruguru presented progress on KCA University’s project, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to advancing research, innovation, and outreach through structured, impact-driven strategies.

The presentations were delivered in expert-led parallel sessions, fostering peer learning, cross-institutional exchange, and constructive feedback among participants from diverse academic environments.

Advancing KCA University’s Strategic Vision

Participation in IDC Part III provided a valuable platform for KCA University to:

• Showcase its institutional innovation initiatives on an international stage
• Benchmark against global best practices in university leadership and management
• Strengthen international partnerships and collaboration networks
• Gain insights into sustainable research funding, employability, and innovation ecosystems

The experience further reinforced the University’s commitment to translating research and innovation into tangible societal impact, in line with its strategic vision.

As KCA University continues to expand its research and innovation footprint, participation in global leadership programmes such as the IDC remains a key pillar in building a forward-looking, globally competitive institution.