Executive Master of Leadership and Governance
Lead with purpose. Govern with impact. Shape Africa’s future.
Programme introduction
Leadership for professionals already leading
The Executive Master of Leadership and Governance is for professionals who are already leading and are ready to go further. It builds the leadership, governance and strategic capability needed to run institutions, shape policy, and drive change that holds. The programme is delivered in a blended format, so participants can study at graduate level without stepping away from the work they are already doing.
Who it is for
Who it is for
The EMLG is designed for experienced professionals leading institutions, shaping policy, managing complex organisations and driving change across Africa. Participants come from government and public institutions, regional and international organisations, development finance institutions, civil society, philanthropy and the private sector.
Applicants should bring substantial professional experience, a proven record of leadership, and a commitment to institutional excellence and public impact.
The first intake joined in 2026 with 104 participants.
- Government and public institutions
- Regional and international organisations
- Development finance institutions
- Civil society and philanthropy
- The private sector
What you will study
Seven curriculum areas
The curriculum runs across seven areas, followed by electives and a capstone.
Leadership and organisational transformation
Leadership practice, institutional culture, organisational change, team performance, and what it takes to make transformation stick.
Governance and public policy
Governance systems, policy development, accountability, implementation, and the relationship between leadership and public value.
Strategic decision-making and AI
Strategic judgement, and how evidence, data, emerging technology and artificial intelligence support leadership decisions.
Public finance and institutional performance
Public finance, resource allocation, performance management, institutional effectiveness and financial accountability.
Strategic communication and negotiation
The communication, influence and negotiation capability needed to align stakeholders and lead through competing interests.
Infrastructure, climate and development governance
The leadership and governance dimensions of infrastructure, climate resilience, sustainable development and long-term planning.
Peace, security and institutional reform
Leadership, peace, security, state capability, reform, and the resilience of African institutions.
Participants then take elective modules aligned to their own professional interests.
Learning in practice
Five modes of learning
The programme is built around continuous application, moving between five modes.
Foundation
Establishing the core leadership and governance groundwork.
Online learning
Studying flexibly while applying new thinking at work.
Residential learning
Three immersive sessions with faculty and a pan-African peer group.
Executive development
Coaching and structured reflection to strengthen individual leadership practice.
Capstone
A work-based project addressing a real leadership or governance challenge inside your own institution, sector or community. Participants apply evidence, strategy, governance and leadership tools to an authentic problem and turn the academic work into institutional impact.
Who teaches it
Who teaches it
The EMLG is directed by Ngozichukwu C. Njemanze, Programme Director, Executive Master of Leadership and Governance.
Entry requirements and how to apply
Entry requirements and how to apply
Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution.
- At least five years of senior management experience, including leadership or managerial responsibility.
- A demonstrated record of leadership, responsibility and professional achievement.
Documents
- A statement of purpose setting out your leadership journey, your goals, and why you are applying.
- A current CV covering professional, academic and leadership experience.
- Official or certified academic transcripts from previous higher education.
English proficiency
Applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English may be asked to demonstrate English language proficiency.
How to apply
Start your application online. Applications are submitted through the ASG admissions portal.
Fees and funding
Fees and funding
USD 15,000
Full programme tuition: USD 15,000. This covers tuition for the complete 15-month programme.
Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible candidates. Applicants are encouraged to review the options and submit any required financial support information as part of the application.
Join a pan-African community of experienced leaders working to strengthen institutions, advance effective governance, and create lasting impact.