Women Leaders in Higher Education (WLHE) Summit 2026

Event Name: Women Leaders in Higher Education (WLHE) Summit 2026

Date: 16 – 18 September 2026

Location: Cape Town, South Africa (Exact venue TBC)

Website: wlhe-summit.co.za

About the Event

The 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 Areas

The 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 Attend

• Vice-Chancellors & Deputy Vice-Chancellors
• Deans, Directors & Department Heads
• Academic & Administrative Leaders
• Funders, policymakers, and professionals invested in systemic impact
• Researchers, Academics & Innovators
• Project Managers & Programme Coordinators
• Women in Governance & Policy
• Academic Entrepreneurs
• Emerging Women Leaders
• Postgraduate 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