The training brought together student leaders from prominent institutions including the University of Ilorin, University of Abuja, University of Calabar, Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Kwara State University (KWASU), Al-Hikmah University, University of Cape Coast, and representatives from the All-Africa Students Union (ASU).
Speaking to ATL FM News, Director-General of IEPA, Professor Michael Boakye-Yiadom, emphasized the vision behind the initiative, stating that the programme is aimed at nurturing the next generation of transformational leaders across the African continent.
“The idea is to support the leadership development of student leaders in African universities. We believe that leadership is not just about holding positions but about integrating values like empathy, service, and responsibility,” he noted.
The leadership training featured three interactive sessions each day, with modules covering effective communication, time management, teamwork and collegiality, and conflict management, among other core leadership competencies.
Professor Boakye-Yiadom stressed the long-term goal of the initiative, which is to prepare student leaders to become impactful professionals and national leaders after graduation as many student leaders eventually take up national political roles.
He mentioned contributing to shaping leadership skills among students in that level is both humbling and inspiring for them.
“We’re motivated to expand our reach to more student leaders across the continent,” he added.
Prof. Boakye-Yiadom disclosed that feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive and will be instrumental in shaping future training sessions.
Each session allowed participants to assess the programme’s planning and delivery, enabling IEPA to refine future editions of the training based on real-time insights.
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In a commitment to ensure the programme’s long-term effectiveness, he said IEPA plans to conduct follow-up assessments to measure the impact of the training on participants and to explore opportunities for further engagement.
IEPA’s mandate as a UNESCO Centre extends across West Africa—both Francophone and Anglophone countries.
According to Prof. Micheal Boakye-Yiadom, IEPA is already receiving strong interest from institutions in South and East Africa.
“We are proud to be playing our part in shaping the leadership future of Africa,” Prof. Yiadom remarked.
Some participants who spoke with ATL FM News expressed appreciation for the training, highlighting how it enhanced their communication abilities, cultural awareness, and conflict resolution skills.
By-ERIC SEKYI
