Sub-Theme: Leadership and Governance for Employability and Transformation

We welcome all our participants to the The 29th Annual International Management Conference, and particularly to this Sub-Theme: Leadership and Governance for Employability and Transformation. This sub-theme examines how leadership and governance can transform education systems in Africa and beyond to address socio-economic challenges and improve employability. Africa faces significant challenges, including a growing youth population and a disconnect between education systems and the labor market. Leadership in education must prioritize developing policies that equip people with the skills necessary for the workforce.

Research and practice ought to focus on policy frameworks for skills-based education, leadership strategies in educational institutions, governance models for inclusive education, and public-private partnerships in driving educational reforms. The following are key concerns for this conference sub-theme.

In Africa, the gap between education and the labor market is a pressing issue. To address this, it is essential to develop policy frameworks that prioritize skills-based education and ensure curricula align with industry needs. The African Union’s Strategy for the Implementation of CESA 16-25 (2016-2025) emphasizes the need for education systems responsive to labor market demands and economic opportunities. Governance models must be inclusive to ensure equitable access to quality education for marginalized groups, such as women and rural populations. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are essential for enhancing curriculum design, providing resources, and creating hands-on learning experiences, aligning education with labor market needs.

In addition, Leadership plays a crucial role in transforming education systems, particularly in Africa, where leaders often face resource constraints. Educational leaders must inspire innovation and implement effective strategies to deliver skills-based curricula. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 (2013) stresses the importance of strengthening human capital through improved leadership in education. Developing leadership skills is equally critical for gaining both technical and soft skills for the workplace. As outlined in the World Economic Forum’s “The Future of Jobs Report” (2020), employers increasingly seek graduates who possess both hard and soft skills. Ethical leadership is vital in ensuring that reforms are implemented sustainably, overcoming challenges like corruption and resource limitations.

Further, equity in education is fundamental to transforming African education systems. Disparities based on geography, gender, and socio-economic status must be addressed through targeted policies and infrastructure investments. The UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report (2020) highlights the importance of policies that reduce inequality and improve access for marginalized groups. Evaluating the impact of governance structures on educational outcomes assesses how they affect education quality and employability. Further still, strategic planning is key for successful educational reforms. African nations must develop comprehensive plans that address both local challenges and global trends in education and employment. UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 (2015) calls for inclusive, equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all. Strategic planning requires collaboration across sectors to ensure policies are feasible, adaptable, and impactful. Leadership and governance at all levels is necessary to ensure that reforms are sustainable and lead to lasting improvements.

Finally, it is noted that leadership and governance are central to transforming African education systems.This sub-theme provides an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute insights into how leadership and governance can shape Africa’s educational future and enhance employability across the continent and beyond. I wish you frutful deliberations.

Dr. Mugambwa Joshua, Ph.D.
Conference Co-Chair, AIMC 2025