The IAUP elects professor Letlhokwa Mpedi secretary-general elect, and subsequently secretary-general
The election took place at the 20th triennial conference held in Beijing, China, further solidifying UJ’s influence on the global stage and its commitment to fostering international collaboration and leadership in education.
The University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s vice-chancellor and principal, professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, was elected as the secretary-general elect of the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) for 2024–2027, and subsequently as secretary-general from 2027–2030.
This took place at IAUP’s 20th triennial conference held in Beijing, China in mid October. 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.
Established in 1965, IAUP is described as 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 Economic and Social Council (Ecosoc) and United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (Unesco), playing a vital role in shaping educational policies that promote sustainable development, global competence, and peace through education.
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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, 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.
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.
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