At this year’s graduation on June 19, African Leadership Academy had the special privilege of announcing a new endowed scholarship that holds deep significance for our community. The W. Paatii Ofosu-Amaah Scholarship has been generously established by the Ofosu-Amaah family to honor the life and legacy of W. Paatii Ofosu-Amaah, a leader whose work and values made a lasting impact across Africa and the world.
Mr. Ofosu-Amaah was widely respected for his intellect, integrity, and commitment to public service. Throughout his distinguished career at the World Bank and other global institutions, he remained deeply connected to Africa’s progress. This scholarship is a tribute to those ideals and seeks to support the development of young leaders who share a similar vision and sense of purpose.
Each year, the scholarship is awarded to a Year One student who demonstrates outstanding academic performance, leadership grounded in service, and a clear dedication to making a difference in Africa. The scholarship is intended to support students from low-income backgrounds for whom an ALA education may not otherwise be accessible.
Meet the First Scholar: Katleho Mpemi
The first recipient of the W. Paatii Ofosu-Amaah Scholarship is Katleho Mpemi from Maputsoe, Lesotho.
Before joining ALA, Katleho noticed how overwhelmed his local hospital had become and decided to take action. He wrote to the hospital administration requesting to volunteer. Once given permission, he organized a group of his peers to help clean beds and rooms, feed patients, do laundry, and care for children in the nursery. It was a powerful example of leadership rooted in empathy and initiative.
Katleho also launched a peer tutoring program at his school to support students struggling with mathematics. What started as a small act of kindness evolved into a sustainable program that teachers have committed to continuing after his graduation.
In the classroom, Katleho is an academic standout. He has represented his school in national science competitions, helped lead his team to top placements, and advanced to the second round of the South African Mathematics Olympiad.
At ALA, Katleho is a dedicated member of the Mathematics Olympiad and science clubs. He brings a quiet determination and a genuine commitment to both learning and service, which align closely with the values Mr. Ofosu-Amaah lived by.
We are deeply grateful to the Ofosu-Amaah family for making this scholarship possible. Their generosity ensures that Mr. Ofosu-Amaah’s legacy will continue to shape future generations of African leaders.
Katleho’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when leadership, opportunity, and purpose come together. This scholarship will continue to recognize and support students who carry that same light forward.
