Dr. Fanta Aw, the CEO and Executive Director of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, recently embarked on a significant visit to Ghana, marking an important step in fostering international education exchange between Africa and the rest of the world. Her trip underscores the increasing recognition of Africa’s potential in the global academic landscape and the need for stronger partnerships to enhance opportunities for African students.

On March 10, 2025, Dr. Aw delivered a public lecture at the University of Cape Coast on the topic: “Advancing International Education Exchange.” The lecture attracted educators, students, and stakeholders passionate about broadening educational opportunities for African students. Dr. Aw’s insights shed light on the importance of collaboration, capacity-building, and innovative partnerships in promoting study mobility and educational exchange.

The following day, on March 11, 2025, Dr. Aw participated in a roundtable at the University of Ghana, engaging in discussions centered on internationalization, its challenges, and opportunities. As she noted on her LinkedIn, “These conversations reinforce the critical role of collaboration in shaping the future of global education.” Her statement reflects a commitment to strengthening networks and ensuring that African institutions are actively involved in the global dialogue on higher education.

During her visit, Dr. Aw also took the time to visit the Cape Coast and Elmina castles, confronting the painful history of the transatlantic slave trade. Her heartfelt reflection on LinkedIn highlighted the contradiction of human suffering and religious hypocrisy, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging history while striving for a future rooted in justice and equity.

Additionally, Dr. Aw visited the EducationUSA center and reconnected with longtime colleagues and friends, underscoring the enduring nature of relationships built through shared dedication to education and opportunity.

Dr. Aw’s visit to Ghana comes at a critical moment when the demand for international education among African students continues to grow. As African institutions and stakeholders actively engage in conversations about internationalization, the opportunity to create sustainable frameworks for study mobility has never been more promising.

Partnerships with organizations like CLA360 can play a pivotal role in ensuring that African students are better prepared and supported throughout their educational journeys. By collaborating with CLA360 early on, institutions and students alike can gain access to valuable resources, mentorship, and networks that will enhance their readiness for global academic experiences.

Dr. Aw’s visit to Ghana, coupled with her upcoming keynote address in Senegal at DUNIS on March 14, 2025, signals a strategic effort to elevate Africa’s voice in the global academic exchange ecosystem. As more African institutions align themselves with partners like CLA360, the future looks bright for a generation of students poised to make their mark on the world stage.

The collaboration between African institutions and global stakeholders like NAFSA is essential for promoting inclusive and equitable international education. Now, more than ever, the path to success for African students lies in partnerships that prioritize accessibility, awareness, and action.