Private schools have become dynamic spaces where new ideas in teaching, school leadership, and student development are taking shape.
Driven by visionary founders, these institutions are redefining what quality education looks like, combining strong academics with real-world skills, community focus, and modern learning environments.
From early-years foundations to full K–12 networks, these leaders are building school systems that meet the aspirations of today’s African families and prepare learners for a rapidly changing world.
Here are the top 5 African entrepreneurs in this sector, based on verified impact, active projects, innovation, leadership, and publicly available data up to Q3 2025.
— Sizwe Nxasana (South Africa): Founder of Future Nation Schools, Nxasana is advancing affordable, modern, project-based education. His schools focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and strong academic outcomes for South African learners.
— Veda Sunassee (Mauritius/Global Africa): CEO of the African Leadership University Schools Network, Sunassee oversees pre-university and leadership-focused private learning environments linked to ALU’s broader educational mission, shaping future-ready students across Africa.
— Obinna Korie (Nigeria): Founder of Standard Bearers School (SBS), Korie leads one of Nigeria’s most reputable private basic schools, known for blending strong academics with personalized learning and character development for early-years learners.
— Sweety Patel (Kenya): Managing Director of Light International School, Patel runs a multicultural private school group offering an international curriculum that attracts learners from diverse backgrounds across East Africa.
— Fred Ogutu (Kenya): Founder of Makini Schools, Ogutu built one of Kenya’s most influential private school networks, recognized for high academic performance and scalable quality education before its expansion into a regional school group.
These entrepreneurs reflect the growing ambition within Africa’s private education space, one where strong leadership, purpose-driven school culture, and consistent academic standards are shaping students who can compete, innovate, and succeed anywhere in the world.
Image Credit: Business ASA
