The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, has paid a working visit to the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) with a mission to foster collaboration and exchange ideas in the realm of higher education.
Prof Mpedi was welcomed by the Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Prof Abednego F. O. Amartey, and Dr Koryoe Anim-Wright, the Registrar of UPSA, after which he held an open dialogue meeting with UPSA heads of faculties and departments.
The engagement with the senior faculty members on Thursday, June 29, centered around strengthening ties between the two institutions and the future of higher education in the face of rapidly evolving technological advancements and changing student expectations.
It also provided an opportunity for the faculty heads to share their knowledge and experiences in higher education management and pedagogy delivery.
The Dean of the UPSA Law School, Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi, who led the session, expressed his gratitude to Professor Mpedi for the visit.
He emphasised that with a shared vision of advancing higher education and preparing students for the challenges of the future, UPSA faculties are committed and open to continued collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Professor Mpedi, renowned for his vast experience and innovative approach to higher education, said the integration of technology in teaching has become more imperative, calling for an evolving role for educators.
He said heads of faculties must, for instance, develop an entrepreneurial mindset to attract sponsorship for their respective departments and faculties, while lecturers must think outside the box in preparing students for the workforce.
“As academic leaders, we should ensure the curriculum and the lecture notes we produce are relevant and constantly updated to foster a culture of lifelong learning among our students,” said Prof. Mpedi.
The renowned law professor stressed that it is not enough for tertiary institutions, especially public universities, to produce quality research and demand quality teaching and learning without making any significant contribution to the lives of their people.
“We can achieve this through community services that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens and offer economic freedom,” Prof. Mpedi said.
As part of his working visit, Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi also delivered a public lecture on the topic, “Artificial Reproductive Technology: Ethical and Legal Considerations through an African Prism.”
He also used the occasion to launch his latest book, entitled “Labour Law in Ghana,” which he co-authored with Dr Theophilus Edwin Coleman.
