The Association of African Private Universities (AAPU) is pleased to announce its 2026 International Hybrid Conference, scheduled to take place from 7–8 December 2026 at the Prof. Abubakar Rasheed Twin Theatre, MAAUN Main Campus, Kano, Nigeria, with both in-person and virtual participation available.

Conference Theme

Reimagining African Higher Education for Global Excellence and Sustainable Development

The conference will bring together university leaders, academics, researchers, policymakers, students, development partners, funding agencies and other stakeholders to discuss innovative strategies for strengthening higher education across Africa.

With a focus on innovation, excellence, partnerships and impact, the conference will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and meaningful dialogue on the future of African higher education and its role in sustainable development.

Conference Highlights

Participants can look forward to a rich programme featuring keynote addresses by distinguished speakers, plenary sessions, parallel paper presentations, workshops and training sessions, exhibitions, networking opportunities and cultural activities.

The conference will also create opportunities for universities, organisations and development partners to showcase their work, establish new collaborations and strengthen existing partnerships. Certificates of participation will be issued to all participants.

Important Dates

• Registration Opens: September 2026
• Abstract Submission Deadline: 30 October 2026
• Notification of Acceptance: 15 November 2026
• Early-Bird Registration Deadline: 20 November 2026
• Conference Dates: 7–8 December 2026

Collaboration and Partnerships

The conference is being organised in collaboration with the European Center for Leadership Entrepreneurship (ECLE), IAMA, and the Association of African Higher Education Financing Agencies (AAHEFA), with the MAAUN Group of Universities serving as a major collaborator.

Join Us

AAPU invites members of the academic community, higher education institutions, government agencies, development organisations and other stakeholders from Africa and beyond to participate in this important international gathering.

Join us in Kano, Nigeria, or virtually as we exchange ideas, build partnerships and work together to reimagine African higher education for global excellence and sustainable development.

For registration, abstract submission guidelines, programme updates, accommodation and participation information, visit www.aapu.org.

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