20 Nigerian change-makers mark a new era for the continent at ALC graduation

Business a.m.

Twenty Nigerian graduates of the African Leadership College (ALC) were recently honoured at the institution’s Asante Sana Day, a memorable ceremony that took place in Pamplemousses, Mauritius. The event was graced by dignitaries from across the African continent, including Prithvirajsing Roopun, the President of Mauritius, who was present to congratulate the graduates acknowledge the significance of the role they will play in shaping the future of Africa

The 20 Nigerian ALC graduates included; David Anuoluwgbemiga Olubayo, Whitney Chinonye Ernest, Owodunni Promise Evans-Adeluka, Janet Ofienya Ugwu, Somtochi Chinwendu Chukwuma, Omobayonle Adeyinka Adewusi, Chidera Kelechi Nnadozie, Mariam Alaba Bankole, Eunice Etim Effiong, Aabidah Adebola Adebomehin, and Okechukwu Elijah Uche, 

Jewel Nimring Yusuf, Jeffrey Obumneme Izuorah, Ogwa Daniella Obekpa, Nnamdi Onwuka, Olajide Stanley Ajao, Umma-Hani Ayomide Olomada, Seth Atorudibo, Stephen Okechi Ndubuisi-Kanu and Tamunotonye Briggs, made up the remaining twenty.

The graduating students were among a cohort of 151 students from 27 African countries who completed a range of undergraduate and graduate programmes at ALC, from the humanities and social sciences to engineering and computing.

The graduation ceremony was attended by key dignitaries and representatives from the African continent. Among the attendees were Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun, vice prime minister of Mauritius and minister of education, tertiary education, science and technology, Elizabeth Nyantakyi, a prominent diplomat and current consul general for Ghana in Mauritius; Dawn Anderson, pro vice chancellor international at Glasgow Caledonian University;Fred Swaniker, the founder of the African Leadership Group.  renowned Kenyan entrepreneur Julie Gichuru, amongst others.

Speaking at the event, Nigerian ALC graduate, Whitney Chinonye Ernest, who studied Business Management, said her time at ALC has been incredibly enriching, exposing her to a diverse community of individuals who share a passion for Africa’s development. 

“Through this experience, I’ve realised the importance of building meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. The network I’ve formed here has been invaluable in shaping my aspirations and providing support towards achieving my goals.

“From the thought-provoking discussions in class to the collaborative projects we’ve undertaken, every moment at ALC has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I particularly value the critical conversations we’ve had, which have challenged me to think differently and expand my perspective on leadership and change,”she said.

 Veda Sunassee, CEO OF ALC and ALU, expressed pride over the hard work and passion the graduates have shown throughout their time at the African Leadership College.

“I look forward to seeing how our diverse and vibrant community of graduates take what they have learned at ALC to solve the difficult challenges our world faces – whether through championing technological innovation, economic development, conservation, social equality, or pursuing further education. Whatever path they choose, I hope they will always carry the skills, self-belief, and one-of-a-kind experiences gained from their time at ALC,” he added.

Julie Gichuru’s keynote address at the graduation ceremony at the Trianon Convention Centre in Mauritius was an inspiring moment for the graduates. Before taking up her role at the Mastercard Foundation, Gichuru’s career has spanned the media, social activism, and philanthropy.  In addition to her media career, Gichuru has been recognised for her work in conflict resolution and her advocacy for gender equality.

Gichuru said in her speech: “When we look at ALU and ALC, we (the Mastercard Foundation) feel that this is exactly what we had envisaged. This is the African dream, this is the African vision, this is our hope for the future. 

Thank you to the governments of Mauritius and Rwanda for being a home to ALC and ALU. Now, the rest of Africa needs to know this story. As you drive your leadership and impact, I want to encourage you to be disruptors – to see the things that need to change and change them.”

Brian Kipchumba, who studied Social Sciences at ALC, gave an inspiring speech on behalf of the 2024 class, reminding them of their responsibility to be agents of positive change. 

 The African Leadership College (ALC) and its sister institution, the African Leadership University (ALU), are at the forefront of training the next generation of ethical and entrepreneurial leaders in Africa. These institutions are committed to developing three million leaders by 2035, through a unique approach that combines rigorous academic study with practical work experience. 

ALC has played a significant role in training up the next generation of African entrepreneurs, particularly among the continent’s youth. According to the African Leadership University’s (ALU) latest Impact Report, more than a quarter of ALC and ALU alumni have started their own businesses, which have collectively created over 44,000 jobs and raised almost $6 million in capital.