The Next Generation Leadership Programme Curricula Handover at Mwenge Catholic University

The recent handover of the Next Generation Leadership Programme (NGLP) curricula at Mwenge Catholic University marked a pivotal milestone in advancing leadership development across Tanzania and beyond.

Representing the Vice Chancellor Designate Rev. Dr. Vumilia, Prof. Kimaro opened the event by expressing profound gratitude to the Porticus Africa team for their steadfast commitment to fostering impactful partnerships with Catholic institutions. He also commended Strathmore University Business School (SBS) for its exemplary delivery of the NGLP curricula, which has set a strong foundation for ethical and transformative leadership training programmes. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to equipping leaders with the skills and values necessary to address the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The NGLP, spearheaded by Porticus in partnership with Mwenge Catholic University, is designed around four key pillars: professional education, essential skills development, servant leadership, and child protection and guiding. With a dedicated team of 16 trainers, Mwenge Catholic University has embraced the responsibility of ensuring seamless implementation and high-quality delivery of the programme. This partnership not only expands the reach and impact of Porticus but also serves as a model for similar initiatives in other faith-based institutions across the region. Prof. Kimaro emphasized that the curricula handover is not the conclusion of a project but rather the beginning of a transformative journey toward broader collaboration and impactful leadership development across Tanzania and beyond.

Dr. Freshia Waweru, Academic Director of the Programme, provided an overview of the Programme’s evolution and impact. She highlighted the growing need for leadership training across Africa, driven by the continent’s unique challenges in governance, organizational growth, and community development. Since its inception in 2018, NGLP has grown significantly, beginning as the African Catholic Scholarship Programme and making notable strides in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The Programme’s tailored approach and diverse offerings have positioned it as a cornerstone for leadership development in faith-based communities.

One of the key components of NGLP is the Executive Management Programme (EMP), which has refined management skills among its participants, comprising 60% Catholic Sisters, 20% Brothers, and 20% laypeople. A particularly inspiring success story involves a Catholic Sister who transformed a small income-generating initiative into a thriving soap-making business that now supplies schools and churches across her region.

Another key component is the Leadership Development Programme (LDP), which aims to equip alumni with essential skills in communication, innovation, organizational growth, project management, human resources, and financial management.

The Senior Leadership Development Programme (SLDP), on the other hand, focuses on congregational and diocesan leaders, enhancing their personal leadership capabilities while strengthening their communication and organizational management skills. These initiatives have collectively fostered the growth of ethical and skilled leaders capable of driving transformative change in their respective communities.

Speaking during the curricula handover ceremony, Dr. Peter Mataba, Chairperson of the NGLP, lauded the professionalism and dedication demonstrated throughout the Programme’s implementation. He encouraged the trainers to take full ownership of the initiative, emphasizing that their active engagement would be instrumental in amplifying its long-term impact. Speaking on behalf of the trainers, Dr. Mayala stressed the importance of empowerment and stewardship in sustaining the Programme. He highlighted two critical responsibilities for ensuring its success: building a highly motivated and cohesive team and fostering a culture of accountability and adherence to the principles underpinning the program. These efforts, he explained, are vital for aligning the NGLP with national development goals and broader sustainable development objectives. Dr. Mayala also underscored the importance of creating scalable and adaptable solutions through collaboration and innovation, including the integration of technology to enhance the program’s reach and effectiveness.

The event culminated with a keynote address by Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Executive Dean at SBS, who acknowledged the exceptional contributions of Mwenge Catholic University, the NGLP Board, and the trainers in advancing the Programme’s mission. He emphasized the significance of partnerships in addressing Africa’s leadership challenges and highlighted the importance of unlocking leadership potential to create opportunities for Africa’s youth. Dr. Mwangi also reinforced the need to foster ethical, transformational leaders who can drive sustainable development and shape a brighter future for the continent. Reflecting on the vision behind the NGLP, he shared an inspiring quote from Saint Josemaria Escriva: “Dream big, and your dreams will fall short.” He emphasized that this handover was not merely a ceremonial event but a call to action—a commitment to build a legacy of leadership that transforms lives, organizations, and communities.

The curricula handover at Mwenge Catholic University represents a significant step forward in leadership development, not just for Tanzania but for Africa as a whole. By nurturing ethical leaders who embody the principles of servant leadership, accountability, and innovation, the NGLP is laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and sustainable future. As Mwenge Catholic University takes on this responsibility, the program’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire positive change, fostering leaders who will leave an indelible mark on their communities and beyond.

Article by Winnie Omamo