Education and gender equality: Maty Niang takes the reins of ARDN in Africa

The African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN) recently announced the appointment of Ms. Maty Niang as Senior Program Manager for ARDN’s Education Initiatives in Africa, effective February 3, 2025. In this strategic role, Ms. Niang will be tasked with leading the implementation of ARDN’s education programs across the continent, with a particular focus on promoting gender equality and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the education sector.

With over ten years of experience in education, program management and gender equality, Ms. Niang has proven expertise in managing youth-focused initiatives and building partnerships with leading educational institutions. Her experience in building academic partnerships and commitment to inclusive and equitable education make her a valuable asset to ARDN.

Dr. Djibril Diallo, President and CEO of ARDN, welcomed the appointment: “Maty Niang’s experience and commitment to education and gender equality align perfectly with ARDN’s mission. Her leadership will be essential to advance our fight against discrimination and empower communities across Africa.”

In her new role, Ms. Niang will lead several important initiatives. Among these, she will oversee the strengthening of partnerships with organizations such as TRACE, a global music platform that supports culture, creativity and community development, as well as the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), an organization of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). She will also focus on resource mobilization and workshop delivery, developing programs that address critical issues such as professional development, climate change and gender equality.

“It is an honour to join the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network to advance its mission of promoting education and gender equality in Africa. I am deeply committed to empowering youth and promoting inclusive practices that create sustainable opportunities for all,” said Ms. Niang, expressing her excitement at contributing to ARDN’s transformative vision.

Based in Dakar, Senegal, Ms. Niang will work closely with the ARDN Dakar office team and report to the Co-Chairs of the Higher Education Initiative, under the supervision of Dr. Roger Salla Ntounga, ARDN Regional Director for Africa.

This appointment is part of the ARDN’s desire to mobilize civil society actors to fight against discrimination and violence, particularly those directed against women and girls. Through its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, the ARDN is pursuing its ambition to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all by 2030.

With this appointment, ARDN continues to consolidate its role as a major player in development in Africa and reaffirms its commitment to promoting a fairer future for future generations.

Mireille Siapje