In a celebration of academic excellence and international collaboration, the University of Pretoria (UP) and Fordham University in New York City marked 17 years of partnership by launching a UP-Fordham Alumni Chapter.

The Chapter launch took place at the third annual UP-Fordham Emerging Markets Exchange Programme Gala Dinner, held at Future Africa, UP’s pan-African platform for collaborative research, on 16 August 2025.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof Loretta Feris, Vice-Principal of UP, lauded UP alumni as “change-makers and leaders” whose influence resonates both locally and globally. She reflected on the life-changing impact of the Emerging Markets Exchange Programme, which has, since its inception in 2007 by the late Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, created international opportunities for students – especially those from under-resourced or rural communities for whom global travel once seemed unattainable.

“This programme is more than a study-abroad experience; it is a vehicle for expanding perspectives, fostering critical thinking and building future leaders,” Prof Feris said.

She also applauded the launch of the UP-Fordham Alumni Chapter, which aims to foster lifelong connections, promote professional development and strengthen global networks among graduates of the joint programme.

The event also provided an opportunity to showcase UP’s growing global standing. The university earned notable rankings: 26th globally for its International Research Network and 63rd in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. Additionally, UP achieved a remarkable seventh place globally for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17: Partnership for the Goals, and a leading position in Africa for SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

Professor Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu, Dean of UP’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, emphasised the broader vision for the new alumni group. “This Chapter will be more than a network – it will be a community committed to mentorship, collaboration and the continued development of young professionals,” she said.

As a first step, the Chapter will aim to raise funds to support the participation of two UP students in the 2026 Emerging Markets Programme, demonstrating a clear commitment to accessible and transformative international education.

The event also highlighted the enduring support of key partners such as Sanlam, which has supported the programme since 2008.

Michael Brand, Head of Learning and Development at Sanlam Investments, described the UP-Fordham collaboration as a “leadership accelerator”, emphasising its ability to connect academia with real-world impact.

“These kinds of partnerships are no longer optional; they are essential. They enable innovation, shape inclusive economies, and create shared value in a rapidly changing world,” Brand said.

He also underscored Sanlam’s commitment to emerging markets across Africa and Asia, aligning its purpose with the programme’s vision of transforming lives through education and leadership development.

The UP-Fordham Alumni Chapter has established a working committee tasked with defining its constitution, consolidating the alumni network and coordinating events such as the annual gala dinner. Its long-term goal is to mobilise the shared expertise and resources of its members to positively influence education, leadership and policy within South Africa and beyond.

Central to this mission is the call to action echoed by Prof Feris in her closing remarks. Citing UP’s guiding slogan “Make today matter”, she urged alumni to consider ways of contributing beyond financial support: by offering mentorships, delivering guest lectures, facilitating student engagement with industry leaders, and creating international opportunities.

“The impact of a university extends far beyond its walls. It lives through the continued engagement of its alumni,” she said.

The gathering concluded with a renewed sense of shared purpose and a pledge for sustained collaboration. Prof Chitiga-Mabugu extended heartfelt thanks to all attendees and stakeholders, including long-time supporters such as Sanlam and global investment firm Ninety One, whose contributions have been pivotal to the programme’s continued growth and success.