By Johnathan Paoli
University of Johannesburg Vice-Chancellor Letlhokwa Mpedi has called for the urgent need to rethink talent development in the country as well as the unique challenges faced by the continent as a whole.
Speaking at the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) recent conference in Beijing, Mpedisaid a rethink of youth talent development was important considering the high unemployment rate amongst the country’s young people.
He stressed the importance of updating university curricula to equip students with the skills needed for an AI-driven job market.
UJ has been at the forefront of this initiative, employing AI tools to personalise student support and expand digital learning, thereby increasing access to education.
“The transformative power of education cannot be overstated. At UJ, we are leveraging innovative technologies to ensure that our students are not only prepared for the workforce but also empowered to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
The conference also highlighted a collective call from university leaders to bridge the AI divide in education.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres previously emphasised the necessity for AI technologies to benefit everyone, urging university leaders to ensure equitable access to resources.
“This means bridging the AI access gap, creating common standards, and providing tools and training to underserved regions,” he said.
Following the election of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Vice-Chancellor Letlhokwa Mpedi as the Secretary-General (SG) Elect of the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP), he has called for the urgent need to rethink talent development in the country as well as the unique challenges faced by the continent as a whole.
During the 20th Triennial Conference held in Beijing last week, Mpedi’s role as SG was confirmed to start in 2027 and run until 2030, marking a significant milestone in UJ’s influence on the global educational stage.
The IAUP, established in 1965, is a prestigious network of university leaders dedicated to fostering collaboration and sharing best practices among higher education institutions worldwide.
With consultative status at both the United Nations and education science body UNESCO, the IAUP plays a pivotal role in shaping education policies that promote sustainable development, global competence, and peace through learning.
The theme of this year’s conference, “Generative AI and the Future of Higher Education,” attracted over 60 international speakers, who convened to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on universities, particularly in teaching, learning, and governance.
The dialogue emphasised how AI can enhance education practices and address critical issues such as equity and access.
His election as SG is expected to amplify African voices in global education discourse, ensuring that the continent’s perspectives are integral to shaping the future of higher education.
During the conference, Mpedi addressed the urgent need to rethink talent development in the country, where youth unemployment hovers above 45%.
He stressed the importance of updating university curricula to equip students with the skills needed for an AI-driven job market.
UJ has been at the forefront of this initiative, employing AI tools to personalise student support and expand digital learning, thereby increasing access to education.
“The transformative power of education cannot be overstated. At UJ, we are leveraging innovative technologies to ensure that our students are not only prepared for the workforce but also empowered to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
The conference also highlighted a collective call from university leaders to bridge the AI divide in education.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres previously emphasised the necessity for AI technologies to benefit everyone, urging university leaders to ensure equitable access to resources.
“This means bridging the AI access gap, creating common standards, and providing tools and training to underserved regions,” he said.
Speakers pointed out that while AI has the potential to democratise access to education, it also risks exacerbating existing inequalities.
Stefania Giannini, UNESCO’s Assistant Director General for Education, highlighted the need for careful application of AI to avoid deepening disparities in access to education.
Keynote sessions also underscored the importance of personalised learning, showcasing how AI can facilitate tailored experiences.
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