Media Release: Monica Geingos appointed First Chancellor of Kepler College

Kigali, Rwanda – August 19, 2024 – Kepler College is proud to announce the appointment of H.E. Mrs. Monica Geingos, former First Lady of the Republic of Namibia, as its inaugural Chancellor. Chancellor Geingos began her term on July 29th, 2024.

“We are pleased to welcome H.E. Monica Geingos as our first Chancellor. Her vast experience and leadership in support of young people make her the right person to lead our institution. We are grateful for her passion and focus on Africa’s development through economic empowerment of young Africans. This aligns with our mission, and we look forward to seeing her impact,” said Ambassador Dr. Charles Murigande, Chairman of Kepler College’s Governance Council. 

Chancellor Geingos is a qualified lawyer and has made significant contributions to both the private and public sectors. Before her tenure as First Lady of Namibia between March 2015 and February 2024, she was the Managing Director and co-shareholder of Namibia’s largest private equity fund for over a decade. Most recently, Chancellor Geingos was the President of Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) where she launched the #WeAreEqual campaign, advocating for gender equity across Africa.

As the inaugural Chancellor of Kepler College, I am profoundly honored to lead this institution into a new era of transformative education. My vision is to harness the power of knowledge not merely to inform but to inspire profound societal change. By creating a dynamic learning environment that bridges academic excellence with real-world application, we aim to ignite a generation of Pan African innovators and leaders who will drive meaningful progress,” said Chancellor Geingos.

Beyond her professional achievements, Chancellor Geingos’ leadership extended to her roles as a co-chair of the Global Council on Inequality, AIDS, and Pandemics, and Chairperson of the Africa REACH Leadership Council. She has been instrumental in advocating for gender equity and economic inclusivity through her various platforms.

“Mrs. Geingos’ appointment as Chancellor marks a significant milestone for Kepler College. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a unique perspective that will enrich the College’s academic culture and commitment to excellence and inclusivity. I am confident that her leadership will greatly enhance our ability to offer transformative higher education,” said Prof. Baylie Damtie Yeshita, Vice-Chancellor of Kepler College. 

Chancellor Geingos’ global recognition includes receiving the ‘World Without AIDS Award’ from the German AIDS Foundation and being appointed as a UNAIDS Special Advocate for Young Women and Adolescent Girls. Most recently, in April 2024, she was honored with an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from Jharkhand Rai University.

As Chancellor, Monica Geingos will preside over convocation ceremonies, confer degrees, and represent Kepler College within and outside the academic community.