In keeping with its commitment to bringing the world to Penn and Penn to the world, the University hosted three world leaders on campus in just under two weeks, including the president of Sierra Leone and former presidents of South Africa and Peru.
For the 3rd Annual Distinguished Lecture in African Studies, Julius Maada Bio, president of Sierra Leone, came to Perry World House to discuss the lecture’s theme, “Navigating the Future: Progressive Politics and Inclusive Development in Africa—The Sierra Leone Experience.” His presentation looked at the work his nation has done building and sustaining democracy.
“The echoes of our past must not be allowed to justify the actions of our present nor determine the trajectory of our future,” Bio told the packed audience.
He then sat down with Wale Adebanwi, director of the Center for Africana Studies, discussing his thoughts on reforming the United Nations Security Council to criticisms of the lack of transparency in the most recent presidential elections in Sierra Leone.
On April 4, the Center hosted a special lecture in African Studies featuring a former president of South Africa, Kgalema Petrus Motlanthe. He spoke on the topic “Reflecting on 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy.” Motlanthe served as president from September 2008 to May 2009.
“The Center for Africana Studies’ hosting of two world leaders within weeks reflects our dedication to introducing the Penn community to African leaders,” Adebanwi said. “The exposure to these world leaders not only enriches the Penn community but also provides invaluable learning opportunities for our students, broadening their perspectives and deepening their understanding of global issues and leadership.”
On April 5, Perry World House hosted former Peruvian President Francisco Sagasti. Sagasti earned his Ph.D. from Penn’s Wharton School in 1972 and later served as the Silberberg Visiting Professor of Social Systems Sciences at Wharton in 1986-87.
Sagasti who served as president from November 2020 to July 2021, guided Peru through a time of political and economic uncertainty. His administration addressed the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing measures to contain the virus and mitigate its socioeconomic impacts. Sagasti also worked to restore public trust in government institutions, promoting transparency and fostering dialogue among political stakeholders, all following the impeachment and resignation of his two immediate predecessors. Under Sagasti’s leadership, Peru held successful presidential and congressional elections in June 2021, and he governed during a peaceful transfer of power.
“Perry World House sits at the intersection of academia and policy making, offering a platform of intellectual exchange between world leaders and the University of Pennsylvania,” says Michael Weisberg, interim director. “We are proud to host these important conversations on our campus.”
The entire discussion with Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio can be seen on The Center for Africana Studies’ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzCfSqPQXJQ.
The entire discussion with former South African President Motlanthe can be seen on The Center for Africana Studies' YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/lwnPHcYpimg.
The entire discussion with former Peruvian President Francisco Sagasti can be seen on Perry World House’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgw-fK_P6lU
