Executive Leadership Programme (ELP)

A global capacity building programme for current and prospective university leaders

 

 

 

 

 

About the ELP

 

The IAU Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) is unique. It is radically global in its ambition to support university leaders across all higher education systems focusing on common issues and challenges. It covers central aspects of higher education management and empowers university leaders to navigate the contextual and political dimensions of university leadership. In short, the ELP provides a framework with which to confront the big managerial, ethical, economic and societal questions universities are facing or will face. The year-long programme will cover 12 modules across HE Management and Transformative, Values-Based Leadership. 

 

MODULES

 

  • The Changing Mission of Universities
  • Effective Leadership, Governance, and Risk Management
  • Building Partnerships Across the Global Higher Education Landscape
  • Creating and Managing Effective Teams
  • Forming Transformative Partnerships with Students
  •  Navigating the Strategic Planning Process
  • Budgeting, Financial Strategy, and Administration
  • Diversifying Income Streams and Fundraising Strategies in HE
  • Shaping Higher Education in an Increasingly Digital World
  • Shaping Higher Education in an Increasingly Digital World.
  • Towards a Transformation of Higher Education
  • Charting a Sustainable Future for Higher Education
  • Communicating the Role of Higher Education in Society

DETAILS

 

Dates: 25 October 2025 - Autumn 2026

Format: Monthly online modules bookeneded by in person meetings at the IAU 2025 International Conference and the IAU 17th General Conference to take place in autumn 2026. Each online module is complemented by an Action Learning Group session. 

 

Learning Outcomes

 

- Enhanced Strategic Thinking and Planning: 
Gain a new perspective on different aspects of global higher education to improve scenario thinking for the implications for your current strategy and future plans.

- Understand Your Leadership Capabilities: 
Gain better knowledge of the different dimensions of strategic leadership to become a globally engaged leader of change.

- Develop Effective Teams: 
Explore leadership expectations and improve interpersonal management skills to unlock the full potential of diverse high-performing teams.

- Build a Global Network of Peers: 
Create long-term partnerships, connect with colleagues from all over the world, and share experiences to learn from each other.

 

Programme Details

 

- Date: 
24 October 2025 - Autumn 2026. The first session will be held at the IAU 2025 International Conference at theUniversity of Rwanda in Kigali.

- Format: 
The ELP will meet in person and online over the course of one year. Each module is complimented by two Action Leadership Groups, separated into current and emerging leaders for true peer-to-peer exchange. 

- Coordinator: 
Dr. Andreas Corcoran, IAU Deputy Secretary General
Meg Harris, IAU Communications and Media Officer
 
-Tuition Fees:*
IAU Members: 2400 €
IAU Member LDC** Rate: 1700 €
Non IAU Members: 3450 €
Non IAU Member LDC** Rate: 2300 €
 
*Travel and accommodation not included in fees
** Consult the UN LDC list here. 
 

MEET THE FACILITATORS

 
 

About the Host 

 

University of Rwanda

The University of Rwanda, established in 2013 through the merger of several higher education institutions, is the largest public university in the country. From its inception, it has been dedicated to offering a comprehensive and inclusive education with a focus on innovation and research. The university promotes programs that cater to the developmental needs of Rwanda and the wider region, positioning itself as a leader in science, technology, agriculture, and health sciences.

Through collaborations with international partners and the establishment of centers of excellence, the University of Rwanda is committed to advancing the country's vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy. With approximately 31,042 students across six colleges, the university offers a diverse academic environment that encourages global perspectives and cross-cultural exchanges.

The University of Rwanda supports educational mobility by providing programs taught in English and French, spanning disciplines such as business, engineering, medicine, and environmental studies. Its commitment to research and community engagement makes it a vital contributor to Rwanda's socio-economic transformation and development.

 

Sponsors & Partners