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Shahzad Ahmad, Marlene Dietz, Professors Azwinndini Muronga and Muki Moeng, President Prof Larry Dietz, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa, Drs Robert Johnson and Mumbi Mwangi and Professor Andre Keet
The celebration, hosted by Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, highlighted the strong ties between the two institutions and their shared commitment to education, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration.
“A 25-year partnership is no small feat, it speaks to a strong relationship, where we take care of each other,” said the President of St Cloud State University Dr Larry Dietz, who commended Mandela University’s spirit of knowledge sharing and community interaction.
Since the partnership began in 1999, the institutions have worked together on student exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, and faculty collaborations that have enriched both universities.
Over the years, students and educators from both sides of the globe have had the opportunity to experience different perspectives, cultures, and learning environments, making this partnership a beacon of international cooperation in higher education.
At the celebratory event, representatives from both institutions reflected on the journey so far, sharing memories of impactful projects and the lifelong connections forged through the collaboration.
The newly signed MOU extends this valuable relationship for another five years, ensuring that students and faculty from both universities continue to benefit from joint initiatives. The agreement reaffirms commitments to student mobility, faculty exchanges, collaborative research, and innovative academic programs that push the boundaries of global learning.
Nelson Mandela University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa, shared her thoughts on the enduring partnership: “For 25 years, this collaboration has exemplified the power of education in bridging continents and cultures. As we renew our commitment, we embrace the opportunities to innovate, inspire, and continue fostering global citizenship among our students and staff.”
Professor Judy Peter Senior Director of the International Office, echoed these sentiments, stating, “International partnerships like this one create opportunities for students and faculty that go beyond the classroom. Over the years, we have seen lives transformed through cross-cultural experiences, research collaborations, and shared learning. The continuation of this partnership ensures even greater possibilities for the future.”
In the last 25 years, 544 students visited each of the two universities as part of student (inbound and outbound) Short Mobility Programmes and study abroad, majority inbounded from St Cloud State University.
In addition to this, Nelson Mandela University has hosted over 100 staff including faculty and support staff from St Cloud State University for short stay visits. Importantly, the long-standing partnership between the two universities has been its collaboration and engagements with communities in Gqeberha.
Short Mobility programmes organised for various staff and student groups from St Cloud State University are linked with surrounding communities in Gqeberha to promote intercultural exchange and experiential learning for students.
"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead," Nelson Mandela.