We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Introduction to Africa Public Policy course, a 6-week intensive program designed and taught by faculty from Ashesi University and the University of Toronto under the Africa Health Collaborative in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
It is delivered in person at Ashesi University and is open to all students and alumni from Africa Health Collaborative partner universities.
The program is designed to equip learners with strong foundational knowledge in public policy theory while developing the critical thinking and practical skills needed for effective policy analysis, development, and implementation. The curriculum is uniquely focused on three critical sectors at the intersection of policy and societal wellness in Africa.
Program Structure
The course will run daily from June 22 to July 31, 2026, combining lectures with interactive learning, group exercise, and personal reflections. The syllabus is divided into three thematic areas:
- Ethical Leadership and Health
- Women and Health
- Climate Change, Sustainability, and Health
The program culminates in an in-person Symposium on the last day of class, where students will showcase their final group projects to the wider scholarly community.
Benefits
- World-Class Instruction: Learn from expert professors who are leaders in their fields from Ashesi University and the University of Toronto
- Collaborative Environment: Engage in highly interactive learning, group discussions, and case study analysis with a diverse cohort of students and alumni from across the Africa Health Collaborative network
- Professional Development: Develop entrepreneurial thinking and acquire practical skills to initiate and lead ethical, service-centered endeavors in public policy across Africa
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a student or alumni of one of the Africa Health Collaborative partner institutions: Addis Ababa University (AAU), African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), African Leadership University (ALU), Amref International University (AMIU), Ashesi University, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Moi University, University of Cape Town (UCT), or the University of Toronto (U of T).
- Demonstrate a strong interest in public policy, health, climate, and/or gender studies.
- Be prepared for a rigorous, 6-week intensive in-person learning experience.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals who will contribute to diverse perspectives in the classroom.
Cost and Accommodation
The course fee is free. Students are responsible for covering their own accommodation, travel, meals, and personal expenses. The program offers flexible accommodation options.
Click here for details on Cost and Accommodation
Scholarship Opportunity
Two full scholarships valued at $2,500 USD each are available for exceptional learners from outside of Ghana. These are all-inclusive scholarships designed to cover the full cost of participation.
How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit their application through the online form.
Application Deadline: April 3rd, 2026
Important Note: Early registration is recommended, as lower-cost accommodation options tend to sell out quickly. For any questions, please contact the Ashesi Health & Care Initiative team at health@ashesi.edu.gh.
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