'Lead with purpose in an uncertain world'
- Wits University
Celebrated economist and higher education leader, Professor Ernest Aryeetey, delivered a powerful message during Wits University’s Autumn graduation ceremony.
In accepting an honorary degree from Wits, Aryeetey urged graduands to be “agents of change” in a world grappling with uncertainty and opportunity.
“You are graduating at a time of profound change, both in South Africa and globally,” he said. “Do not merely seek personal success; strive to create value for your communities and industries.”
Against a backdrop of youth unemployment, climate change, and global inequality, Aryeetey challenged graduates to embrace innovation while holding fast to integrity and empathy. “True leadership is not about titles or accolades,” he added, “but about the impact you have on the lives of others.”
“You carry with you the values of critical thinking, empathy, and a commitment to justice that define this university.”
Wits and a shared journey
Aryeetey also reflected on his personal and professional journey — one closely linked to Wits.
The former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana and founding Secretary-General of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) traced his connection with Wits to a 2013 visit by then Vice-Chancellor Professor Loyiso Nongxa. That meeting laid the foundation for what he described as a “deep and productive collaboration” in building research networks across the continent.
“Anything we achieved as a network could not have come through without significant support from the University of the Witwatersrand,” he said, singling out Wits staff members Dr Robin Drennan, Dr Mahomed Moola, and Ms Nancy Law Rametse for their contributions to ARUA’s growth.
“Wits has not only been a partner; it has been a cornerstone in building Africa’s research capacity.”
Aryeetey praised the university’s contributions to global health, palaeontology, and recent efforts to develop an mRNA-based HIV vaccine tailored to the African context.
“These accomplishments remind us of the power of knowledge to transform our world,” he said.
Describing Wits as a “beacon of inclusivity, innovation, and intellectual rigour,” he noted its proud history of producing Nobel laureates, legal pioneers, and social justice champions.
“In closing, I leave you with a challenge,” he said. “To be not only the beneficiaries of the Wits legacy, but also its custodians.”
“Congratulations, Class of 2025. May your journey be impactful and your legacy enduring.”
Read his full graduation speech.
Biography and citation:
Professor Ernest Aryeetey (Doctor of Commerce)
A renowned African economist and a leader in higher education, Professor Ernest Aryeetey has significantly contributed to economic research and institutional development across the continent. As the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, he played a pivotal role in transforming the institution into a research-intensive university. He is also the founding Secretary-General of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), where he has worked to strengthen partnerships among Africa’s top research institutions. His research on informal finance and economic development has influenced policy decisions in Africa and globally. Click here to read more about this citation.