During the 20th Triennial Conference of the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP), held in Beijing, China from 13-15 October 2024, the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi was elected Secretary-General Elect for the 2024-2027 term, with his role as Secretary-General to follow from 2027 to 2030.
This prestigious election marks a significant achievement for both UJ and African higher education, further solidifying UJ’s influence on the global stage and its commitment to fostering international collaboration and leadership in education.
The IAUP, established in 1965, is a distinguished network of university presidents, rectors, and vice-chancellors dedicated to fostering the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices among higher education leaders globally. The organisation holds consultative status at the United Nations (ECOSOC) and UNESCO, playing a vital role in shaping educational policies that promote sustainable development, global competence, and peace through education.
The 2024 conference, themed “Generative AI and the Future of Higher Education,” brought together more than 60 international speakers to explore how AI is transforming universities, reshaping teaching and learning, and influencing governance worldwide.
As Vice-President for Africa, Professor Mpedi has been instrumental in advocating for the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities within the IAUP. His new role as Secretary-General will further amplify the voices of African institutions in global education discourse, ensuring that African perspectives contribute to a broader vision for the future of higher education.
Speaking at the conference, Professor Mpedi highlighted the critical need to rethink talent development in South Africa, where youth unemployment exceeds 45%. He stressed the importance of updating university curricula to equip students with the skills required for an evolving workforce in an AI-driven world. UJ is already a leader in this space, leveraging AI tools to personalise student support and address skill gaps, while also expanding digital learning to increase access to education.
This appointment not only strengthens UJ’s leadership on the global stage but also reaffirms its dedication to driving positive change in higher education through international collaboration, innovation, and the transformative power of education.
