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LAUREATES

Making the World Better for Future Generations

[Patrick Awuah, Jr.] 이미지

2025 Laureate

Patrick Awuah, Jr.
Founder of Ashesi University in Ghana

Transforming Africa with STEM-focused education and ethical leadership

Patrick Awuah established Ashesi University in Ghana in 2002, introducing a groundbreaking educational model that integrates STEM-focused learning with ethical leadership. With 92% of graduates securing quality jobs or launching successful businesses, Ashesi has become a driving force for sustainable economic and social development in Africa.

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Nurturing Ethical IT Talent for Africa’s Future


Patrick Awuah and Ashesi University: Transforming Education in Africa.
Since founding Ashesi University in 2002, Patrick Awuah has reshaped the landscape of higher education in Africa. The university, starting with just 30 students, now hosts 1,500 students from 31 countries, producing thousands of graduates equipped with ethical leadership and cutting-edge IT skills.

With 92% of alumni achieving quality employment or entrepreneurial success within six months of graduation, Ashesi’s impact on Africa’s economy has been profound. The Ashesi Venture Incubator, launched in 2019, has fostered over 30 startups, driving innovation and generating $1.5 million in revenue.

Ranked #1 university in Ghana, #9 in Africa, and among the top 400 universities globally (2020 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings), Ashesi is recognized as a leader in African higher education.


 



Opening Doors to Opportunity
Expanding Access and Promoting Gender Equality


Patrick Awuah has prioritized accessibility, with 55% of Ashesi students receiving scholarships. This initiative ensures that financial barriers do not impede access to quality education.

By increasing female enrollment from 25% to 50%, Ashesi has become a leader in empowering women in STEM fields. Programs like scholarships and mentorships enable women to excel in areas such as computer science, engineering, and business. Notable alumni, such as Regina Kanu, named among the BBC’s 100 Most Inspirational Women, exemplify Ashesi’s success.

 

 



Fostering Ethical Leadership
Transforming Africa’s Future through Integrity


Patrick Awuah’s commitment to ethical leadership has led to the implementation of Africa’s first honor code. This initiative emphasizes responsibility and integrity, fostering leaders who address societal challenges with accountability.

Through leadership programs focusing on ethics, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, Awuah has cultivated a culture of responsible leadership. Ashesi graduates are driving sustainable development, combating corruption, and contributing to Africa’s growth.


 


“By transforming leaders, we can transform a continent.
The next century will belong to Africa.”

[Patrick Awuah, Jr.] 이미지

Patrick Awuah, Jr.

  • Born
    1965
  • Country
    Ghana
  • Reason for Award:
    Patrick Awuah has driven sustainable progress in Africa through innovative STEM education and ethical leadership training. His work demonstrates how education can be a transformative force for justice and societal change.

Education

  • Swarthmore College: Bachelor’s in Engineering and Economics

  • University of California, Berkeley: MBA, Haas School of Business

  • Honorary Doctorates: Swarthmore College, Babson College, University of Waterloo, Connecticut College, University of Toronto

Career

  • 1989–1997

    Software Engineer and Program Manager, Microsoft

  • 2002–Present

    Founder and President, Ashesi University

Awards

  • 2009

    Integral Fellow Award, Microsoft Alumni Foundation

  • 2010

    Development Award, Millennium Excellence Awards, Ghana

  • 2012

    Award for Leadership through Innovation, UC Berkeley Haas School of Business

  • 2015

    Haas International Award, UC Berkeley

  • 2017

    WISE Prize for Education, World Innovation Summit for Education

Recognition

  • 2007

    Young Global Leader, World Economic Forum

  • 2009

    TED Fellow

  • 2013

    Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary International

  • 2014

    Social Entrepreneur of the Year, Schwab Foundation

  • 2015

    Top 50 World Leaders, Fortune Magazine

  • 2015

    MacArthur Fellowship, MacArthur Foundation

  • 2016

    Innovator, Quartz Africa

Videos

Sunhak Peace Prize

Future generations refer not only to our own physical descendants
but also to all future generations to come.

Since all decisions made by the current generation will either positively
or negatively affect them, we must take responsibility for our actions.