UJ vice-chancellor honoured as chief in Ghana

Described as a significant occasion that bridges continents and celebrates a deep commitment to education, research, and Pan-Africanism, professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has been bestowed as a Chief in the Abeadze Kingdom in Ghana.

His Royal Majesty Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, the Paramount Chief of the Abeadze Kingdom bestowed this honour at a ceremony held on November 13, at UJ’s Art Centre. The coronation ceremony marks the beginning of what is said to be a remarkable journey for Mpedi. It signifies a milestone in his career and his deep-rooted connection to Ghana. The second leg of the coronation will take place during the annual Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII festival in Ghana, scheduled for August 2024. Ewusi VII, also known as the Omanhen (Overlord) of the Abeadze Traditional Kingdom, will preside over this event.

Prof Mpedi’s coronation as a Chief in Ghana is said to be a testament to his lifelong commitment to fostering growth and development across the African continent. “This installation is being conferred on Prof Mpedi to acknowledge his impactful contributions in the area of research, mentorship to young Ghanaian men and women who had the rare opportunity to learn and continue to learn under his tutelage, as well as progressive collaborations between institutions of higher learning in Ghana and South Africa, which has seen several Ghanaian men and women benefit from postgraduate education in law,” said Ewusi VII.

In a moment of reflection, Prof Mpedi extended his gratitude to His Royal Majesty Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII for bestowing this honour upon him and to the people of the Abeadze Kingdom for their unwavering support. With a sense of purpose and a deep commitment to the shared vision, he looks forward to exploring new avenues for societal impact in collaboration with all.

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