St. Mary’s University (SMU), with a legacy of over 25 years in advancing research and knowledge transfer, is set to host the 23rd International Conference on Private Higher Education in Africa. Among its five annual research events is the International Conference on Private Higher Education in Africa which stands out as a prestigious platform where distinguished scholars from around the globe engage in discussions on critical higher education issues.

Since its inception in 2003, this conference has been held annually without interruption, fostering dialogue among educators, policymakers, higher education leaders, and partners committed to academic excellence. On May 29, 2025, it, along with its esteemed partners, will hold the 23rd edition of the grand conference at Inter Luxury Hotel, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Rooted in the values of collaboration and joint academic advancement, SMU is proud to organize this year’s conference in partnership with the Association of African Universities, the International Network for Higher Education in Africa, the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the Organization of Southern Cooperation (OSC), and the Ethiopian Ministry of Education.

Bringing together scholars, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and development partners, the conference will engage in meaningful dialogue on key academic and research trends, generating policy-relevant recommendations through scientific research papers, panel discussions, and expert reflections. The conference is hoped to serve as a vital networking hub for professionals in higher education.

This year’s conference will focus on the theme “The Academic Profession and Research Excellence in Africa.”  Two fundamental sub-themes will guide the discourse: “The Academic Profession in Times of Change” and “Research for Development and Impact”.

With about 300 participants expected from Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America, this event promises engaging discussions led by prominent figures in higher education, including keynote speeches and roundtable panel debates on challenges, opportunities, and future directions for both public and private higher education.

For further inquiries, please contact the International Relations and Communication Office at +251 11 558 0616.