On September 7, 2025, the African Development Forum (ADF) at KDI School of Public Policy and Management hosted a welcome ceremony to usher in 31 new students from across Africa for the Fall semester. The event blended inspiration, culture, and camaraderie, setting the tone for the academic journey that lies ahead for the new students.

The ceremony began with opening remarks by Ms. Mariama Coneh, President of ADF, who emphasized the organization’s role as “a symbol of unity among Africans at KDI School.” She reminded the audience that ADF’s foundation rests on the values of equality, equity, integrity, and Pan-Africanism, and that its mission is to showcase African culture, foster cooperation, and protect the interests of its members in Korea. Ms. Coneh encouraged the new students to embrace the spirit of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—and to play an active role in shaping the future of ADF. “This vision cannot be achieved by the executive alone. It requires the collective effort of all of us… let us continue to be a family that cares for one another, a community that lifts each other up, and brothers and sisters who make this experience memorable,” she said. Her remarks resonated deeply with the audience, setting a tone of unity and collective responsibility.

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Duke Ohene Ofosu-Anim, Assistant Professor in the Leadership Division at Yemyung Graduate University (YGU). With research interests spanning public policy, education policy, economic development, and political leadership, Professor Duke brought academic rigor and lived perspective to his lecture “Global Leadership in a Changing World: Navigating Education and Opportunity as Emerging Leaders.” Holding a PhD in Political Leadership and Economic Development from YGU and a Master of Arts in Economic Policy Management from the University of Ghana, he drew on his background and encouraged the students to see themselves as change agents. He stressed the importance of resilience, self-help, and leveraging education for both personal advancement and as a tool for Africa’s collective progress. He also urged students to cultivate global networks, remain adaptable in the face of uncertainty, and embody the kind of leadership that will allow Africa to shape global narratives with courage, wisdom, and vision.

Beyond the speeches, the ceremony highlighted the vibrancy of the African community at KDIS through interactive activities. A central feature was the panel discussion with ADF PhD students—Francis, Ianja, and Richard—joined by a GKS scholar, Richmond. The panel provided the new cohort with candid insights into both academic and social life at KDI School and in Korea. The discussion centered on three themes: academic advice, social integration, and leveraging opportunities. Panelists shared strategies for handling coursework, engaging with professors, and balancing research with personal growth. They also spoke openly about adapting to life in Korea, offering guidance on building friendships, maintaining cultural identity, and navigating everyday challenges. For many participants, this was one of the most valuable parts of the program. As one reflected in the anonymous feedback survey, “The panel session was very helpful. Hearing honest experiences about life at KDIS and in Korea made me feel better prepared to face both academic and social challenges.” The session was highly interactive, giving the incoming students the opportunity to raise questions they had long been curious about—from academic workload to career pathways and student life in Korea. This exchange created an atmosphere of openness and trust, reinforcing that ADF is more than a club, it is a family.

The program then transitioned into a networking session where all participants connected on a deeper level, sharing their academic interests, professional aspirations, and personal journeys. Several students described this session as the highlight of their evening, with one noting, “The networking activity was amazing. It gave me the chance to meet new colleagues, exchange ideas, and even start talking about possible collaborations.”

To add an element of fun and pride, students participated in an Africa quiz competition, testing their knowledge of the continent’s culture, history, and current affairs. The room buzzed with laughter and cheers as participants showcased their knowledge, with winners receiving thoughtful prizes.

The cultural highlight of the evening was a poetry performance by Ms. Tresor Nyirenda, whose words celebrated African identity, resilience, and hope. Her performance drew warm applause and left the audience with a renewed sense of pride in their heritage, with one participant writing afterwards, “The poetry performance was so moving. It reminded me of our identity and gave me pride in representing Africa here at KDI School.”

The evening concluded with food, group photos, and a heartfelt closing address by ADF Secretary General, Mr. Ronnie, who thanked both guests and participants for making the ceremony memorable. He reaffirmed ADF’s commitment to building community and providing a platform where African students at KDI School can thrive together.

A feedback survey conducted at the end confirmed the success of the program, with students describing the event as inspiring, well-structured, and welcoming. One participant summed it up by saying, “The program was beautifully organized and created a strong sense of belonging.”