The ALU School of Business (ALUSB) celebrated the graduation of the Executive MBA 2024 cohort on July 17, marking the School’s first graduation ceremony in several years and one of our largest graduating classes to date.
Held as part of African Leadership University’s graduation celebrations at the Kigali Convention Centre, the ceremony recognized graduates from the Executive MBA who completed their studies while balancing demanding careers, family commitments, and leadership responsibilities. The occasion celebrated not only academic achievement, but also the dedication required to lead while continuing to learn.
This year’s ceremony also marked an important milestone for our School. It was the first graduation led by Sidee Dlamini, Chief Executive Officer of African Leadership University. She was joined by Fred Swaniker, Founder of African Leadership University and Chief Guest, while Dr. Nkosana Moyo, Founder of the Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS Africa), delivered the keynote address, encouraging graduates to lead with integrity, build enduring institutions, and create value that extends beyond individual success.
The graduating cohort represents leaders from across industries who chose to deepen their expertise, strengthen their leadership capabilities, and prepare for the next stage of their careers. Throughout their time at ALUSB, graduates engaged with faculty, peers, and industry practitioners to explore the complex challenges shaping business, public leadership, and economic development across Africa.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Confrey Alianji reflected on the responsibility graduates carry as they step into the next chapter of their leadership journeys.
“Graduands, change is coming and change is here now. As you are represented here, Africa is waiting for you. Africa depends on you. Your country. Your village. They are waiting for your potential to be unleashed. As a graduate, you are now the change. And I ask you to lead with vision. To see what is not and ask, ‘Why not?'”
Graduation also marked an important milestone for our School. As we continue to grow our portfolio of executive education and postgraduate programs, this cohort reflects a growing community of professionals committed to lifelong learning and values-driven leadership.
As the newest members of the ALUmni community, graduates leave ALUSB with expanded networks, fresh perspectives, and the confidence to lead through complexity. They return to their organizations equipped to drive innovation, strengthen teams, navigate change, and create lasting value in the industries and communities they serve.