About ASG

What is the African School of Governance (ASG)? 

The African School of Governance (ASG) is a graduate institution dedicated to developing ethical, purpose-driven leaders who will shape Africa’s future.
Through innovative teaching, research, and policy engagement, ASG equips professionals to design and implement solutions that advance good governance and sustainable development across the continent.
 
Our approach is rooted in African values, histories, and opportunities, while engaging global perspectives and best practices.

    ASG stands apart through:
  • ● A mindset-first philosophy that emphasizes integrity, service, and results.
  • ● A pan-African learning community of students, faculty, and practitioners from across the continent and beyond.
  • ● A contextually grounded curriculum, combining academic rigor with real-world application.
  • ● A lifelong learning ecosystem supporting leaders at every career stage—from emerging professionals to senior policymakers.
  • ● Practical exposure through partnerships with governments, international organizations, and development institutions.
  • ● ASG graduates are equipped to lead institutions, influence policy, and drive Africa’s transformation.

Yes. ASG is officially accredited by the Government of Rwanda (Ministerial Order Nº 001/MINEDUC/2025, effective 6 January 2025).
Our programmes meet international quality standards and are recognized by academic and professional institutions worldwide. 

ASG is based in Kigali, Rwanda—a regional hub for innovation, good governance, and sustainable development.
The city provides students with a living classroom for leadership and policy in action.

ASG was established by H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, and H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, as a pan-African initiative to cultivate a new generation of ethical and visionary leaders.

Education: Master’s and Executive Master’s in Public Administration, Executive Education, the Young Leaders Programme, and the Senior Leadership Fellowship.
Research: Evidence-based studies addressing Africa’s governance and development challenges.
Policy Engagement: Roundtables, policy briefs, and partnerships that connect ideas to real-world impact.

Admissions

How Does the Application Process Work?

The process is fully online and includes two stages:
Application Submission – Complete the online form, upload required documents, and pay the non-refundable application fee.
 
Assessment Stage – Shortlisted candidates complete a video-based exercise assessing leadership, communication, and critical-thinking skills. Some applicants may be invited to an interview for further evaluation.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.

Competitive candidates typically have at least a second-class upper division or equivalent.

Degrees obtained outside Rwanda must be verified and recognized by the Rwandan Higher Education Council (HEC) prior to enrollment. 

Not at this time. All students begin the MPA in Year 1 to ensure a shared foundation in leadership and governance.

No. Applicants must complete their degree before applying.

Yes. While the MPA targets professionals with 3–5 years of experience, outstanding recent graduates demonstrating strong leadership potential are encouraged to apply.

No. ASG welcomes applicants of all ages who are ready for graduate-level leadership study.

No. We welcome applicants from diverse disciplines who are passionate about Africa’s development. Applicants of all nationalities are eligible.

Yes. Admitted students may request to defer for one year in exceptional cases (e.g., personal, professional, or visa reasons). Approval is not automatic and must be requested in writing. 

Fees and Deadlines 

Is there an application fee and how do I pay?

Yes. A non-refundable USD $50 fee is payable by credit/debit card or secure bank transfer via the online application portal.

● Applications Open: November 15, 2025
● Round 1 (Priority) Deadline: January 30, 2026
● Round 1 Decisions Released: March 7, 2026
● Round 1 Confirmations Due: April 15, 2026
● Round 2 (Final) Deadline: March 15, 2026
● Round 2 Decisions Released: April 20, 2026
● Round 2 Confirmations Due: May 15, 2026
● Final Document Submission: June 15, 2026