In 2004 a young economics student from Ghana was presenting a paper at a Stellenbosch Business School conference. Impressed by the country’s First World infrastructure, he was nevertheless unsettled by the stark disparities in wealth and opportunity.
“This disparity still exists, and it’s painful,” says Charles Adjasi. “But it’s also what drives me to make a difference.” Since that day he has gone from guest lecturer to full professor and is now head of the institution.
A milestone was his appointment as head of development finance programmes in 2013, two years after joining the school, when the programme was in its early stages; today it is recognised internationally as a leading one in the field.
“We wanted to grow it beyond what it was, to be the lead provider of development finance education, setting the benchmark not just in Africa but globally,” says Adjasi.
The business school, which celebrates its 60th anniversary, has also changed dramatically. It is the first African business school to have achieved the triple crown of accreditations by the Association of MBAs, which is headquartered in London; the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, based in the US; and Equis, a business school accreditation organisation in Brussels.
These accreditations strengthened Stellenbosch Business School’s reputation, created greater opportunities for collaboration and elevated the quality of its academic programmes, says Adjasi.
He says his leadership style has been shaped by the diverse community at Stellenbosch. He credits the school’s collaborative culture, with its focus on innovation and inclusivity, for having allowed him to grow as an academic and a leader.
“I’ve always believed that leadership [at a university] is about empowerment and creating environments where colleagues and students can thrive,” he says. “That’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my time at the school.
“This is a place where every member of the institution, from the professors to the administrative staff, is valued and encouraged to contribute to its success. It’s a very inclusive space; we need to keep that alive.”
One of the significant moments in Adjasi’s career was being asked to step into the role of acting director last year when the incumbent departed early for personal reasons. Adjasi, who was then the director of research, was appointed after nominations from colleagues, the university and advisory board members.
“It’s been both a challenge and a privilege,” he says. “I feel a great responsibility to continue the legacy of excellence while steering Stellenbosch Business School towards new frontiers.”
His vision is for the school to be seen not just as a regional leader but as providing a global benchmark for innovative teaching methods and the sharing of knowledge.
Adjasi says technology and digitalisation will shape future higher education offerings. In particular, he notes, there is a growing interest in blended learning (a mix of online and in-person tuition) as the most viable and cost-effective way of providing for the growth in student numbers and ensuring the sustainability of postgraduate programmes.
“With increased competition in the online/blended learning global environment, schools will need to ensure they have the required capacity to explore and invest in innovative educational and instructional technology,” he says.
He emphasises the importance of collaboration, not just with industry but also with society and other business schools, as being key to Stellenbosch Business School’s success.
“We want to co-create knowledge that addresses real-life problems and issues, inviting students and the broader community to be part of this process,” he says. “It’s about having a long-lasting influence.”
Over time, cultivating impactful, responsible leadership has become the school’s primary objective. This means empowering graduates and staff with the skills and mindset needed to drive positive change and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society.
“I want to see our students and alumni go out into the world with a focus on finding long-term solutions and making a real difference,” says Adjasi.
The same philosophy underlines the school’s approach to research, which it has consistently advanced in key areas such as sustainable economic growth in Africa, the upholding of ethical standards by businesses, climate change, corporate governance, responsible leadership and gender equity.
“We’re all working towards something bigger,” says Adjasi. “It’s not just about individual achievements, but about collective progress.
“That’s what makes our work here so rewarding.”