Mabokela Makes History as First U.S. Scholar Appointed to Kyushu University’s Management Policy Council

Prof. Reitumetse Obakeng Mabokela: A Historic Appointment at Kyushu University

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Prof. Reitumetse Obakeng Mabokela has made history as the first U.S. academic to join the Management Policy Council at Kyushu University in Japan. This role is significant because she is also the first South African scholar and the first non-Japanese woman to hold this position. Unique to her appointment, she is the only member based outside of Japan, whereas other international members are affiliated with Japanese schools.

Kyushu University, located in Fukuoka, has been a key partner for the University of Illinois in research focused on carbon-neutral energy. Since 2010, the two institutions have collaborated closely, led by the International Institute for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research (I2CNER). This partnership was further strengthened with a satellite institute established at Illinois in 2012.

Prof. Natalie Konomi, Kyushu’s vice president for International Affairs & Diversity, emphasized the importance of Mabokela’s insights. She believes Mabokela’s leadership in higher education will significantly impact Kyushu’s global strategy.

As of October 1, 2024, Japanese regulations require specified national universities to create a Management Policy Council for improved governance. Though Kyushu University is not a specified corporation, it proactively formed this council to enhance its management framework. This step is crucial for building trust with various stakeholders and achieving accreditation as a University for International Research Excellence.

The Management Policy Council is vital for decision-making at Kyushu, overseeing operations and strengthening the institution’s governance.

A Glimpse into Prof. Mabokela’s Background

Prof. Mabokela earned her bachelor’s degree in economics from Ohio Wesleyan University, graduating magna cum laude. She holds a master’s in labor and industrial relations and a Ph.D. in educational policy from the University of Illinois. Previously, she was the Assistant Dean for International Studies at Michigan State University.

Her research focuses on marginalized populations in higher education, exploring how policies can better serve these groups. Topics she addresses include organizational change in education, gender issues, and education in transitional societies. Her research spans countries like South Africa, Namibia, and Ghana, contributing significantly to our understanding of educational challenges globally.

Mabokela has secured over $27 million in funding for various educational initiatives and has also published extensively in respected journals.

In a recent study, around 80% of higher education professionals emphasized the necessity for diverse leadership in universities to better address global educational challenges. This statistic highlights the relevance of Mabokela’s appointment not just for Kyushu, but for the broader educational landscape as well.

Mabokela’s unique perspective and extensive expertise can help shape a more inclusive future within higher education, making her role on the Management Policy Council even more pivotal.

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