A high-level delegation from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), led by Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi, recently concluded a week-long visit to Liberia to solidify academic, research, and institutional partnerships across the country. This visit underscores UJ’s commitment to building influential Pan-African networks aimed at advancing innovation and long-term development on the continent.
Key Engagement Highlights
The delegation’s schedule was packed with crucial engagements designed to foster collaboration:
- Institutional Meetings: Discussions were held with various Liberian universities and government ministries to explore cooperation in areas like:
- Joint research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation.
- Research focused on governance, education, and social justice.
- Developing mechanisms for student and staff exchanges.
- Exploring co-funded research and philanthropic partnerships.
- Development Partners: The UJ team engaged with international development partners interested in collaborating on fundraising and research projects.
- Strategic Alignment: These efforts align directly with UJ’s Strategic Plan 2035, which aims to position the institution as a continental leader in technology-driven education and African knowledge systems.
Courtesy Call with Former President Sirleaf
A significant moment during the visit was a courtesy call to Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia and the first woman elected as Head of State in Africa. Madam Sirleaf, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, received the delegation and lauded the growing partnership between UJ and Tubman University.
- Madam Sirleaf’s View: She emphasized the critical role of African institutions in creating opportunities for youth and developing resilient education systems to propel the continent forward.
- Prof Mpedi’s Vision: Prof Mpedi affirmed UJ’s dedication to continent-wide collaboration, stating, “Our collaboration with Liberia is built on a shared belief that African universities must lead the way in producing knowledge that transforms society.”
Foundation for Collaboration: Honorary Doctorate
The visit was strategically timed following a major academic recognition for Prof Mpedi:
- Honour: He was awarded the Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence from Tubman University on November 24, 2025.
- Recognition: The honor was given for his leading scholarship on AI and the Law and his contributions to ethical digital transformation in higher education, providing a strong, substantive foundation for the strengthened partnership.9
The UJ delegation is now working to consolidate further pathways for collaboration, promising a new chapter for the UJ–Liberia partnership rooted in shared intellectual growth and African cooperation
