- Matengu re-elected President for 2nd term
- 2nd term runs from October 2024 until October 2027
- PAU is a flagship continental initiative by the AU
The University of Namibia (UNAM) is proud to announce that on 19 July 2024, Prof. Dr. Kenneth Matengu, Vice-Chancellor of UNAM, was re-elected as President of the Pan-African University (PAU) Council by the African Union (AU) Executive Council.
Prof. Dr. Matengu will serve another 3-year term, continuing his leadership until October 2027. His re-election reflects his exemplary leadership during his first term, which concludes in October 2024.
“I am deeply honoured by the trust placed in me by the African Union Executive Council, the Member States and indeed the Namibian Government. This re-election is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective effort and dedication of everyone at the Pan-African University.
“Our work at PAU is driven by a commitment to fostering innovation, research, and high-quality education across Africa. We aim to equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to address the continent’s challenges and drive sustainable development.
“I am excited to continue this journey, working alongside my esteemed colleagues to further our mission of fostering excellence and driving sustainable development throughout Africa.”
Under his guidance, the PAU has seen significant advancements in governance, administration, and student enrolment. This re-election is a testament to the trust and confidence that African Union Member States have in Prof. Dr. Matengu’s vision and capabilities.
About the Pan-African University
PAU was founded following a decision by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union during its 15th Ordinary Session in July 2010 in Kampala, Uganda. Its primary goal is to create high-quality continental institutions that promote advanced training, research, and innovation across Africa. These 5 institutions foster new ideas and supply highly skilled human resources to meet the continent’s developmental needs.
The PAU Council is the highest governing body of the Pan-African University, overseeing its policies, finances, and property. Established in 2011, PAU is a flagship continental initiative inspired by the African Union Commission to revitalise higher education and research in Africa. The Council has the authority to adopt regulations and issue directives, policies, and guidelines for all PAU activities and operations.
Headquartered in Yaoundé, Cameroon, the PAU operates through 5 institutes across Africa:
- Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI), hosted by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya.
- Institute for Life and Earth Sciences (including Health and Agriculture) (PAULESI), hosted by the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
- Institute for Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences (PAUGHSS), hosted by the University of Yaoundé II, Cameroon.
- Institute for Water and Energy Sciences (including Climate Change) (PAUWES), hosted by the University of Tlemcen, Algeria.
Institute for Space Sciences (PAUSS), to be hosted by Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa (pending operationalisation).
