The Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University (NWU) will host a public lecture on 8 May 2025, exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of humanities education in higher education institutions.
The event, to be held at the Mmabatho Palms Hotel and streamed online, will also mark the official launch of the university’s new Centre for Teaching Excellence.
Two internationally recognised scholars will headline the lecture. Prof Hopeton S. Dunn, a communications policy expert at the University of Botswana, will speak on “AI, ethics and the challenge to higher education globally”. His academic work focuses on digital inclusion, emerging media and telecommunications policy. Prof Dunn has previously chaired Jamaica’s Broadcasting Commission and served as secretary general of the International Association for Media and Communication Research.
The second speaker, Prof Toyin Falola, will present on “Humanities education for African futures: Reimagining scholarship, creativity and knowledge production in a changing world”. Prof Falola is one of Africa’s most cited historians and has held leadership roles in multiple academic associations over a five-decade career. His research and mentorship have influenced the direction of African scholarship internationally.
Prof Mpho Chaka, deputy dean for teaching and learning in the Faculty of Humanities, says the lecture reflects the faculty’s commitment to academic dialogue on current global and regional developments.
“We are pleased to bring together two highly respected scholars whose work intersects with some of the most pressing debates in higher education,” says Prof Chaka. “This public lecture not only creates space for academic engagement but also affirms the university’s investment in future-focused teaching and research.”
The event is scheduled to begin at 15:00 in the Leopard Room of the Mmabatho Palms Hotel. It will also be accessible via Microsoft Teams and livestreamed on YouTube.
For more information, contact Granny Mogotsi at 018 389 2320 or granny.mogotsi@nwu.ac.za.
Prof Hopeton S. Dunn
Prof Toyin Falola
