Vice-Chancellor Reaffirms the Power of Trust at the 2025 International Association of Universities Conference in Kigali

It was a pleasure to return to Kigali, Rwanda, for the 2025 International Association of Universities (IAU) Conference, where I had the privilege of participating in multiple capacities as a member of the IAU Administrative Board, a panelist on the plenary session on “Trust in Science,” and co-moderator, alongside Professor David Quigley of Boston College, of the Presidents’ Forum on “Trust as a Key Dimension of Leadership Principles and Practices.”

I was delighted to be joined by a strong delegation from the University of Ghana, including Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah, Registrar; Professor Jemima Anderson, Dean of International Programmes; and Professor Justice Bawole, former Dean of the University of Ghana Business School. Each of them contributed meaningfully to the discussions and sessions throughout the conference.

Notably, Professor Jemima Anderson also featured as a speaker on the topic “Fostering Resilient Global University Collaboration in Times of Turmoil,” where she shared the stage with the IAU President and the Dean of International Programmes from Qatar University; a proud moment for our University community.

Throughout the conference, our discussions reaffirmed the importance of trust, not only as a moral value but as a strategic pillar for leadership, collaboration, and institutional resilience. Whether in rebuilding confidence in science, nurturing university partnerships, or fostering ethical governance, trust remains the quiet force that sustains transformation and progress.

The University of Rwanda deserves special commendation for its warm and vibrant hosting. From the captivating cultural performances by its students to the impeccable hospitality and cuisine, every detail reflected thoughtful organisation. I extend deep appreciation to Vice-Chancellor Professor Didas Kayihura Muganga, the IAU leadership, and their dedicated teams for delivering a truly superbly organised conference.

Outside the formal sessions, Kigali once again impressed me with its discipline, order, and strong sense of security consciousness. From hotels to malls, public institutions to the airport, one could sense a collective commitment to safety and civic responsibility, a reflection of effective national leadership and shared purpose.

As I returned to Accra, I was reminded that resilient institutions are built not only on systems and policies, but on shared trust and consistent leadership. Kigali remains a living testament to that truth and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when trust is woven into the fabric of national and institutional life.