ASG Executive Leadership Programmes 2026 for African Leaders (Sponsorship)
Application Deadline: July 3, 2026
The African School of Governance (ASG) is inviting applications for the 2026 ASG Executive Leadership Programmes, a unique leadership development initiative designed to equip African leaders with the skills, mindset, and strategic foresight needed to drive meaningful change across the continent.
The programmes are designed for leaders at different stages of their journey, from emerging changemakers to experienced professionals responsible for institutional transformation. Through a combination of online learning and an in-person residency in Kigali, Rwanda, participants will gain practical leadership tools rooted in African realities and perspectives.
The 2026 cohort offers two distinct learning tracks.
The first programme, Leadership Fundamentals for High Performance, is designed for young and emerging leaders aged 18–35. Participants will strengthen their ability to lead themselves, lead others, and navigate complex systems. The programme focuses on self-awareness, resilience, communication, team leadership, coaching, systems thinking, and change management.
The second programme, Leading Through Strategic Foresight using Anticipatory Governance, targets leaders aged 30–55 who are responsible for organizational performance and long-term decision-making. Participants will explore strategic foresight, scenario planning, adaptive governance, evidence-based policymaking, and strategies for managing uncertainty in rapidly changing environments.
ASG particularly encourages applications from women leaders, refugees and displaced persons, individuals with disabilities, and leaders from underserved communities, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to Africa’s future leadership landscape.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Apply to only one programme during this application cycle.
- Meet the age requirements of their chosen programme:
- 18–35 years for Leadership Fundamentals for High Performance.
- 30–55 years for Leading Through Strategic Foresight using Anticipatory Governance.
- Be available to participate throughout the programme period from August 3–26, 2026.
- Attend both the online sessions and the in-person week in Kigali, Rwanda.
- Be able to follow and actively contribute to discussions conducted in English.
- Be willing and able to travel to Kigali for the residential component.
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Benefits
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Learn from a leadership curriculum grounded in African contexts and realities.
- Develop practical leadership and management skills.
- Strengthen strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities.
- Build networks with emerging and established leaders from across Africa.
- Gain exposure to systems thinking, governance, and institutional leadership.
- Join a growing leadership pipeline focused on driving sustainable change across the continent.
Participation Fee and Sponsorship
The participation fee for the programme is USD 495.
However, a limited number of partner-sponsored places are available for exceptional applicants who may not otherwise be able to participate. Applicants seeking sponsorship support will be required to provide a financial statement during the application process.
Application Process
To apply:
- Select the programme that best matches your leadership experience and career stage.
- Download and review the programme guide to understand the curriculum, learning outcomes, and selection process.
- Complete the online application form.
- Prepare and upload your CV.
- Provide the contact details of one referee.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
The application form typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes to complete. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the review process, with the programme commencing on August 3, 2026.
For more details, visit ASG Executive Leadership Programmes.