The Department of Social Work & Community Development (DSWCD) at the University of Johannesburg continues to strengthen its global footprint, now boasting at least six international partnerships across multiple regions. Building on its established presence in India, the Department was recently approached by the Bhopal School of Social Sciences (BSSS), located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, to explore opportunities for shared learning and teaching.
This engagement, initiated by Prof Varoshini Nadesan, laid the foundation for a broader collaborative network. It subsequently led to two additional partnerships with institutions in the same region: the BSSS Institute of Advanced Studies in Bhopal and the St Paul Institute of Professional Studies in Indore. Together, these partnerships mark a significant step in advancing Global South academic collaboration.
From 15 to 18 April 2026, the DSWCD hosted distinguished representatives from these institutions, including Fr Dr John PJ, Principal of BSSS and Director of the BSSS Institute of Advanced Studies, and Fr Dr Michael John, Director of St Paul Institute of Professional Studies. Their visit culminated in a historic moment for the University.
On 17 April 2026, the Vice-Chancellor of UJ, Letlhokwa Mpedi, presided over the simultaneous signing of three formal agreements—marking the first time the University has concluded multiple international agreements in a single sitting.
The agreement with BSSS was signed by Prof Zibonele Zimba, Head of the DSWCD, alongside Prof Varoshini Nadesan. The remaining agreements were formalised by the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Prof Kammila Naidoo, and the Vice-Dean for Internationalisation, Prof Bhaso Ndzendze.
These agreements are strategically designed to:
- Strengthen inter-country academic teaching and learning
- Foster mutually beneficial research collaborations
- Enable student and staff mobility through exchange programmes
During their visit, the international guests also attended the DSWCD Oath-Taking Ceremony, held at the Chinua Achebe Auditorium, where approximately 100 second-year social work students marked an important milestone in their academic journey.
Looking ahead, the partnerships are already yielding tangible plans. A joint conference between the DSWCD and BSSS is scheduled for January 2027, with further collaboration anticipated around Women’s Month in August 2026.
Beyond formal engagements, the visit reflected the spirit of cultural exchange and South African hospitality. Delegates were hosted at key heritage sites, including Maropeng and the Cradle of Humankind, offering a deeper appreciation of the country’s history and identity.
Fr Dr John PJ expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting the generosity and openness of the DSWCD team. Similarly, Fr Dr Michael John reflected on the visit as an embodiment of Ubuntu, commending the Department’s staff for their hospitality and collaborative spirit.
In reflecting on the significance of these agreements, Prof Mpedi noted:
“These engagements reflect a shared commitment to advancing collaboration in social sciences, research, and community development. These partnerships open new avenues for student and staff exchange, joint research initiatives, and knowledge sharing, reinforcing UJ’s position as a globally engaged institution dedicated to impactful education and internationalisation.”
This milestone signing not only strengthens institutional ties between South Africa and India but also reinforces the University of Johannesburg’s role as a leading partner in Global South knowledge exchange and collaboration.
