• Excellency, Hailemariam Desalegn, co-founder and Chairman of the ASG Board of Directors
• Board Members of the African School of Governance
• Members of the Diplomatic Corps
• Faculty, Students, and Parents
• Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen

This institution, which was once just an idea, is now alive, because of you.

I thank you my brother, His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn, and all our partners, whose commitment made this possible, in particular the Mastercard Foundation, led by Reeta Roy.

What you have accomplished here, is something transformative, which will benefit not only the students, but also the communities that they come from.

Why does a school like this matter?

The answer is simple: Africa deserves focus and deep study, and that should be done by you, our youth and our future.

Unlike anywhere else, your education here will challenge you to think critically and practically, about how to move our continent forward.

This school will prepare you for leadership, but the journey starts from within.

You need three essential qualities.

The first, is awareness. Pay attention and observe how Africa is perceived in the world. Is it fair? Is it true? And so on and so forth.

Some challenges are inherited, but many are self-inflicted, or are allowed to persist through inaction and indifference.

Other regions that were once at the same level, have surged ahead, yet Africa still struggles with issues that should have been solved decades ago.

That should trouble you, and ignite a fire within you.

The second, is responsibility. Value yourself, your country and your people.

You cannot expect the world to take Africa seriously, if you do not respect your own role.

Do not demand more from others, than you do from yourselves.

Third, take action. Do not be a spectator.

Be prepared to go out and lead, because you are exactly who Africa needs.

Globally, economies are shifting, technology is advancing, and Africa cannot afford to lag behind.

An institution is only as strong as the people it shapes.

That means you.

Make the most of your time here. Our hope is that soon, when your countries look to you for answers, you will be ready.

Once again, congratulations. We are counting on you.

I wish you the best. God bless us all.

I thank you for your kind attention.