UbuntuNet Alliance was pleased to host a two-day orientation training for its newly appointed Board of Trustees from 17th to 18th July 2025 at its Secretariat in Lilongwe, Malawi. The induction, facilitated by E Square Consultancy Services, marked a significant step in equipping the Board with essential tools to effectively steer the Alliance’s strategic and governance agenda.
The induction programme was specifically designed to further strengthen the Board’s already existing capacity in corporate governance, financial literacy for non-finance leaders, and ethical leadership within a multi-country, non-profit context. The training drew on best practices and was tailored to reflect the unique operating environment of the Alliance.
The training covered a wide range of thematic areas designed to ensure the new Trustees were well-prepared to execute their responsibilities effectively. Participants were introduced to the governance structure and strategic direction of UbuntuNet Alliance, along with an in-depth exploration of the roles, duties, and fiduciary responsibilities expected of Board members. The programme emphasized corporate governance frameworks relevant to regional non-profit organizations, while also enhancing the Trustees’ financial oversight capabilities, particularly in interpreting financial reports to support informed decision-making.
Further sessions addressed governance and regulatory compliance, including policies on conflict of interest, whistleblowing, audit, and risk management. Trustees were also familiarized with Board operations such as committee structures, meeting schedules, and document access procedures. Additional topics included stakeholder engagement strategies and a review of key strategic plans, financial documents, and performance indicators. Throughout the training, hands-on and interactive learning methods such as case studies and role-playing were employed to ensure practical application and active engagement.
In addition to the formal training sessions, the induction presented an invaluable opportunity for the Board members to meet and interact with the Secretariat staff. This engagement is key in fostering trust and shared understanding between the Board and management, a cornerstone for the Alliance’s collaborative culture and high-performance environment.
UbuntuNet Alliance is excited to officially welcome the new Trustees onboard and looks forward to their contributions in advancing the mission of enhancing research and education networking across Eastern and Southern Africa. The successful completion of the induction underscores the Alliance’s commitment to strengthening governance structures and investing in the capacity of its leadership.