EAIE on the road: Connecting with Africa

October was a month of meaningful reconnection. Following the success of the "Study and Research in Africa" pavilion at the EAIE Conference & Exhibition in Gothenburg, we took the next step, heading back to the continent to deepen conversations, listen closely, and learn from our African colleagues about their internationalisation journeys.

Kampala: Ambition and equity at ANIE 2025

Our first stop was Kampala, Uganda, where EAIE Executive Director Mervin Bakker attended the 15th conference of the African Network for Internationalisation of Education (ANIE). The energy in the room was palpable. Despite the global headwinds facing higher education, the discussions were filled with hope, ambition, and a clear sense of purpose.

One theme echoed throughout the sessions: equity in partnerships. African institutions are calling for collaborations built on mutual respect and shared goals, not those dictated by financial or academic dominance. It was inspiring to hear how universities across the continent are prioritising intra-African collaboration and partnerships with the Global South, aligning with strategic goals in teaching, learning, and research.

At the same time, there’s a strong desire to engage with European institutions, especially through frameworks like the AU-EU Innovation Agenda, Horizon Europe and Erasmus+. Several compelling examples of successful partnerships were shared, reminding us of the power of co-creation and shared vision.

Kigali: Trust and transformation at IAU 2025

From Kampala, Mervin Bakker then travelled to Kigali, Rwanda, for the International Association of Universities’ 2025 International Conference. Hosted by the University of Rwanda, the event brought together over 200 participants from more than 55 countries. The theme of building trust in higher education sparked deep and candid conversations.

We heard from high-level leaders, including Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, and the World Bank’s Roberta Bassett, about the urgent need for transparency, inclusivity, and integrity in our institutions. The message was clear: universities must reclaim their narrative and remind the world of the transformative impact they have on individuals, communities and economies.

This year also marked IAU’s 75th anniversary, a moment to reflect on the global legacy of higher education and its enduring role in shaping a better future.

Gqeberha: Leadership in action at Nelson Mandela University

Our final stop was in Gqeberha, South Africa, where the EAIE's Director for Knowledge Development and Research, Laura Rumbley, attended the inaugural Internationalisation Leadership Short Learning Programme hosted by Nelson Mandela University. Over five days, participants from South Africa, Namibia, and Uganda immersed themselves in strategy development, curriculum internationalisation, financial planning and more, all through an African-centred lens.

The EAIE was honoured to contribute to two sessions, joining a vibrant community of changemakers committed to translating theory into action. The programme was a powerful reminder that leadership in internationalisation is not just about policy; it’s about people, purpose and progress.

After a month of rich dialogue and shared learning, one thing is sure: Africa’s international ambitions are bold, diverse, and deeply inspiring. The EAIE is proud to walk alongside our African colleagues on this journey, and we look forward to many more opportunities to collaborate, connect and co-create.