Africa University Administrators Visit Claflin to Discuss Research and Study Abroad Partnership

Claflin University demonstrated its emphasis on global outreach Monday during a visit by Dr. Munashe Furusa, vice chancellor of Africa University. Furusa and James Salley, Africa University’s vice chancellor for institutional advancement, traveled to Claflin for a meeting with President Henry N. Tisdale and other University administrators to discuss implementation of a partnership which includes a faculty/student exchange program. A memorandum of understanding was signed in March 2017 by Claflin and Africa University. The partnership aligns with the Claflin University Strategic Plan, “Claflin LEADS: A Shared Vision for the 21st Century," which lists experiential learning and diversity and inclusion among its priorities. The relationship is also consistent with Claflin's vision to "develop a diverse and inclusive community of globally engaged visionary leaders."

We are very excited to have Dr. Furusa on our campus," Tisdale said.  "His visit shows strong support and a commitment to our partnership. We want to expand and create more opportunities for our faculty and students to become globally engaged."

Both Claflin and Africa University are affiliated with The United Methodist Church.

Africa University is the first and only fully-accredited institution of higher learning established on the African continent by action of the General Conference of The United Methodist Church. The General Conference of The United Methodist Church unanimously approved the founding of Africa University in 1988. The official groundbreaking ceremony was held in April 1991. In January 1992, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, issued the University Charter by official proclamation, making the institution the first recognized private university in Zimbabwe.

"This partnership is a great opportunity for two schools that are connected by The United Methodist Church and our commitment to involving students and faculty in research and our commitment to global engagement," said Tisdale. "We look forward to sending teams of faculty and students each year to Africa University to take advantage of the study abroad and research opportunities provided in this agreement."  

Furusa is the fourth vice chancellor of Africa University. He has extensive experience as an academic leader in a range of positions and in aspects of the faculty and university administration including academic programming, financial and personnel management, and student success. He has served as dean and associate dean the College of Arts and Humanities that is home to 19 academic programs and departments.

"This partnership with Claflin will equip students with the global competencies necessary to compete in a world that is constantly changing," said Furusa. "Africa University is committed to becoming a world-class university. We want our students to experience diverse and inclusive environments for study and research. We are following Claflin's model by requiring our undergraduate students to conduct research. We look forward to exploring all of the possibilities of our partnership."

Furusa received several gifts to commemorate his visit to Claflin including a proclamation from Orangeburg Mayor Michael Butler, who designated February 26 "Dr. Munashe Furusa Day."

"We are pleased to play a role in this historic visit by Dr. Furusa," said Butler. "We are also looking at how the city of Orangeburg can benefit and provide support to both universities through this partnership."