Event Name: Women Leaders in Higher Education (WLHE) Summit 2026Date: 16 – 18 September 2026Location: Cape Town, South Africa (Exact venue TBC)Website: wlhe-summit.co.za
About the EventThe Women Leaders in Higher Education (WLHE) Summit 2026 is a strategic leadership meeting designed for Vice-Chancellors, Deans, senior executives, and research funders seeking to drive innovation, equity, and sustainable impact within higher education systems.
Building on the success of the 2025 edition, WLHE 2026 moves from reflection to reimagination. This year’s theme, “Reimagining Higher Education: Women Leading Innovation, Equity & Impact,” focuses on women’s leadership at the critical intersection of health and wellness, equity-driven transformation and Artificial Intelligence.
Join senior leaders, emerging leaders, researchers, and postgraduate students to:Explore AI-driven innovation in teaching, research, and governance.Strengthen leadership skills and promote sustainable practices.Build networks and share strategies for equity and inclusion.Engage in interactive sessions, panel discussions, and keynotes.Connect at the formal networking dinner.
Summit Focus AreasThe summit aims to inspire, connect, and empower women leaders to drive change through three core pillars:
1. Innovation & Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Transformation Exploring how women are leading the ethical and strategic use of AI and digital tools in teaching, research, and governance, with strong attention to equity and ethics.
2. Equity, Belonging & Systemic Change Examining gendered barriers, inclusive institutional cultures, funding access, promotion pathways, and policy reforms that support women across all career stages.
3. Health, Wellness & Sustainable Leadership Addressing burnout, emotional labour, workload pressures, and sustainable leadership practices that prioritise people, wellbeing, and long-term impact.
Who Should AttendVice-Chancellors & Deputy Vice-ChancellorsDeans, Directors & Department HeadsAcademic & Administrative LeadersFunders, policymakers, and professionals invested in systemic impactResearchers, Academics & InnovatorsProject Managers & Programme CoordinatorsWomen in Governance & PolicyAcademic EntrepreneursEmerging Women LeadersPostgraduate students (Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral Fellows)
Why Attend?WLHE 2026 equips participants with practical leadership tools, strategic insights, and opportunities to connect with peers. Leave inspired and empowered to drive innovation, equity, and wellness in your institution.
For more information about participation, sponsorships, and the full agenda, visit wlhe-summit.co.za
