Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute (ALLI)
WLP About us
ABOUT US
The Women Leadership Programme (WLP) at the University of Pretoria (UP) is a significant initiative to transform leadership in Higher Education across South Africa. Investing in women's leadership is necessary for creating a just, sustainable, and inclusive society. Gender inequality is one of the most pressing challenges faced globally, and South Africa is no exception. Although progress has been made in expanding women’s access to education, this advancement has not been matched by a similar increase in women’s representation in leadership positions, economic empowerment, or political participation. The gap is especially evident in Higher Education, where talented women still face barriers to advancement, and the glass ceiling remains firmly in place.
In 2023, the WLP was established at the UP as a strategic response to these systemic inequalities, focusing on transforming leadership within the institution. Aligned with UP’s broader transformation agenda and the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 on Gender Equality, the WLP aims to empower women leaders with the agency, skills, and opportunities necessary to create meaningful change both at the university and beyond.
WHY THE WLP MATTERS
While leadership development programmes in the higher education sector exist, most begin only after women are appointed to leadership roles. This approach misses a crucial opportunity to prepare women for these positions. The WLP aims to fill this gap by intentionally developing a strong pipeline of women leaders at UP.
Our work involves research, mentorship, skills development, and community building. We offer tailored programmes that address the visible and invisible barriers to leadership for women in academia and professional fields. True transformation requires new policies and structures and a re-examination of the narratives that have historically excluded women from leadership roles.
Click below to view more about the WLP Roundtable discussion:
OUR APPROACH
Our vision
Equity. Agency. Change.
These three principles define the Women Leadership Programme’s vision.
We are committed to a future where:
- Equity guarantees participation, inclusion, and opportunities for everyone.
- Agency empowers women to take decisive action, achieve their ambitions, and lead authentically.
- Change represents the lasting societal impact that arises from gender-inclusive leadership.
Our Mission
The Women Leadership Programme is committed to developing and empowering women leaders at the University of Pretoria. We celebrate each woman's unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations, creating a vibrant community where everyone can thrive.
Through engaging training sessions, insightful mentoring, immersive experiences, and exciting international exchanges, the programme fosters a supportive and inclusive environment that addresses structural inequalities and promotes good governance, credibility, and accountability.
Our mission resonates deeply with the UP Transformation Plan (2023–2027), aligning with its goals of fostering a diverse and inclusive community, shaping a forward-thinking culture, encouraging collaboration and innovation, and transforming policies to champion equity and social justice.
