By Rachel Quartey and Rukayatu Musah
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is expected to deliver the keynote address today at the Oxford Africa Conference 2026, organised by the Oxford University Africa Society at the University of Oxford.
The conference, scheduled for May 16–17, 2026, will be held at the Andrew Wiles Building (Mathematical Institute) and marks the 16th edition of the annual gathering, which has become one of Oxford University’s leading Africa-focused forums.
The event brings together participants from academia, policymaking, business, and the development sector to discuss critical issues shaping the continent’s future.
This year’s conference is themed “Anchoring Africa: Grounded Leadership in the Age of Disruption.” Discussions will focus on how African leadership and institutions can respond to global challenges such as economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, climate change, and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The two-day programme will feature keynote speeches, high-level panel discussions, fireside chats, networking sessions, and policy dialogues aimed at promoting practical, Africa-centred solutions.
Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is expected to highlight Ghana’s democratic governance experience, inclusive development agenda, youth empowerment initiatives, education transformation, and Africa’s growing role in shaping global conversations on leadership and development.
The conference is organised by the Oxford University Africa Society (AfriSoc), a student-led platform that convenes policymakers, scholars, entrepreneurs, and global leaders to advance dialogue on Africa’s development and future direction.
Over the years, the Oxford Africa Conference has hosted prominent voices from government, academia, and industry, strengthening its reputation as a major intellectual and policy engagement platform on Africa at Oxford University.
