On 19 August 2025, UNU will host “Universities in a Changing Geopolitical Environment: Do They Exhibit Enough Moral Courage to Enjoy the Trust of the Public?”, a conversation with Professor Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria. This event will start at 18:30 in the 2F Reception Hall at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
In today’s increasingly complex global environment, universities are navigating a rapidly evolving space, caught between geopolitics, public discourse and societal transformation. Traditionally tasked with fostering critical thought, innovation and civic responsibility, higher education institutions are now confronting rising nationalism, digital misinformation and shifting geopolitical alliances. The challenge is not only intellectual but also ethical: how can universities respond with integrity, independence and moral courage?
Amid a broader erosion of public trust in institutions, universities must demonstrate that they are not only centres of academic excellence but also active contributors to social justice, inclusion and ethical leadership. Defending academic freedom, engaging transparently with difficult societal issues, and standing firm in the face of political and ideological pressures are now prerequisites for maintaining credibility and relevance.
Professor Francis Petersen will join Ms. Kyra “Kiki” Bowman, UNU Head of Communications, for a discussion on the future of universities in this shifting landscape. What does moral leadership look like in academia today? Are universities doing enough to earn and retain the trust of the public?
This event also marks a timely moment to reflect on UNU’s deepening collaboration with African institutions. In July 2025, UNU launched its first UNU Hub in Africa and the Global South at the University of Pretoria: the UNU Hub on Resilient Environment, Agriculture, Climate and Health for Africa (REACH-AFRICA). This UNU Hub seeks to strengthen science-policy-society interfaces and co-create sustainable solutions to urgent and interconnected challenges, including climate change, food and water insecurity, and public health.
The UNU Conversation Series aims to foster audience participation; you are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all event attendees are invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
Please note that this event will be in English. Advance registration (by 18 August at 15:00) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page. Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
About the Speaker
Prof. Francis W Petersen is a visionary leader in the South African higher education sector and the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria. He has previously held esteemed positions as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the Free State and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Cape Town. Prof. Petersen holds a PhD in Engineering from Stellenbosch University. His international speaking engagements include prominent conferences worldwide, contributing to the global discourse on higher education and research. He is the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Universities South Africa.
