The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has further solidified its standing as a global hub for intellectual exchange following the successful conclusion of a week-long Comparative Governance Learning Forum.
The robust exchange was between South African scholars and the School of International Relations and Public Administration (SIRPA) at Fudan University.
Led by the Consul General of China in Johannesburg, H.E. Mr Pan Qingjiang, the delegation brought together seven South African students and seven pracademics and scholars from Fudan. Hosted by the Centre for Public Policy and African Studies (CPPAS) at the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), the week was defined by a rigorous schedule of lectures, dialogues, and site visits centred on governance, development, and comparative policy learning.
Throughout the week, participants delved into the complexities of digital transformation, economic development, and institutional capacity. By contrasting African and Chinese perspectives, the forum fostered a unique environment for mutual learning and Africa-focused scholarship.
Alignment with UJ’s Strategic Themes
This engagement is not an isolated event but a strategic move that aligns directly with the University of Johannesburg’s core institutional goals:
By partnering with Fudan University, one of China’s most prestigious institutions, UJ is actively expanding its international reach. This collaboration exemplifies the university’s drive to foster durable global partnerships that enhance the quality of research and teaching.
The intensive programme concluded with a high-level engagement with the Deputy Vice- Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Refilwe Phaswana-Mafuya, signalling the formal close of a long-term commitment to deepening international partnerships in research, teaching, and policy-relevant thought leadership.
Prof Phaswana-Mafuya added that the UJ Strategic Plan 2035 emphasises the establishment of Pan-African and Global South partnerships as part of its Global Footprint and Partnerships strategic imperatives. The collaboration with Fudan University is a fulfilment of this.
As JBS continues to consolidate its role as a leader in economic governance training, this forum serves as a critical building block. The insights gained over the past week are expected to inform future policy-relevant research, ensuring that UJ remains at the forefront of shaping institutional capability across Africa.
