Prof Bashasha was joined by Eddy Barigye of Choice Placements and Dr Jack Kinobe, Chargé d’Affaires at the Consulate of the Union of Comoros. The delegation represented Uganda.
The strategic visit aimed to reinforce the University’s presence in East Africa and enhance international partnerships through alumni diplomacy and reliable recruitment channels.
Discussions with the International Office leadership and the Alumni Relations Office centred on strategically positioning Nelson Mandela University within the East African higher education landscape.
From left, Paul Geswindt (Director of Alumni Relations and Fundraising), Livingstone Bashasha Mugume (PhD Candidate), Janine Bezuidenhout (Finance Manager), Eddy Barigye (Choice Placements), Professor Alex Turyatemba Bashasha (Honorary Consul of Comoros and Mandela University PhD alumnus), Prof Judy Peter (Senior Director International Office), Dr Jack Kinobe (Chargé d’Affaires at the Consulate of the Union of Comoros), Anine Swanepoel (Public Relations, Events and International Visitors Coordinator), Adanaan Smith (Student Support Manager) and Leolyn Jackson (International Partnerships and Research Networks Manager)
The focus was also on alumni-driven advocacy and recruitment efforts, improving operational visibility and student mobility from Uganda, and to develop sustainable, mutually beneficial international partnerships.
Mandela University, dedicated to meaningful global involvement, values the contribution of alumni ambassadors and regional partners. They help broaden access to quality education, enhance research collaborations, and promote Africa-focused internationalisation.
This effort aligns with the University’s wider goal of forming strategic partnerships that go beyond recruitment, and aims to build influence, credibility and a sustained presence throughout Africa.