Professor Henry Kiptiony Kiplangat, Vice-Chancellor of Kabarak University , underscored the critical importance of transformational leadership in reshaping higher education across Africa to address the continent’s distinctive challenges.
Speaking at a public lecture in Ibadan during the University of Ibadan’s 76th-anniversary celebrations, Prof. Kiplangat delivered an address titled “Transformational Leadership in Higher Education: Empowering Africa’s Future.” He emphasized that transformational leadership catalyzes change, fosters innovation, and ultimately advances both academic institutions and society at large.
Prof. Kiplangat highlighted the growing prominence of transformational leadership within African higher education, noting that leaders in this field must embody vision, inclusivity, and collaboration. He asserted that transformational leadership is essential for promoting institutional evolution, enhancing research, driving socio-economic impact, and engaging communities. He remarked that as Africa navigates the complexities of the 21st century—including rapid technological advancements, globalization, and socio-economic disparities—higher education institutions (HEIs) play a vital role in preparing the next generation of leaders.
Identifying the challenges hindering transformational leadership in African HEIs, Prof. Kiplangat pointed to resource constraints, political instability, government interference, brain drain, and issues of access and equity. However, he emphasized that this leadership approach also offers pathways to expand digital learning, decolonize and contextualize curricula, build global partnerships, address social and economic goals, and foster inclusive educational systems.
To strengthen transformational leadership in African higher education, Prof. Kiplangat recommended initiatives such as leadership development programs, policy reforms to ensure institutional autonomy, and a culture that nurtures innovation. He argued that this leadership approach is pivotal to Africa’s socio-economic progress, as transformational leaders are positioned to foster institutional growth, champion inclusivity, and inspire students to become future leaders.
In his opening remarks, University of Ibadan Vice-Chancellor Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration Professor Peter O. Olapegba, acknowledged the relevance of the theme to their shared pursuit of excellence. He stressed that higher education requires visionary leaders who inspire, empower, and drive meaningful change, while universities must cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and innovation to prepare Africa’s future leaders.
Prof. Olapegba assured attendees that the University of Ibadan remains dedicated to fostering an environment of excellence, inclusivity, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He noted that the university is committed to innovation, entrepreneurship, contextualized curricula, and strengthening partnerships with industry, government, and communities to address Africa’s unique needs.
Prof. Kiplangat’s presence and lecture underscored the value of cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange in realizing the transformative potential of African higher education.
