Dr Qhobela is a Pan-Africanist who draws inspiration from a vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens, representing a dynamic force in the international arena and a firm believer in the power of science, technology and innovation to transform lives and societies.
Dr Qhobela will bring his wide range of skills, knowledge and networks, his commitment and passion to the development of the continent to the position of Commissioner. As such he will be able to support the Chair of the Commission and his fellow Commissioners in their collective quest to build the Africa we want, an Africa that is developed, prosperous, and at peace with itself through Agenda 2063.
Dr Qhobela also has a deep and extensive knowledge and understanding of the South African, African and global higher education and research systems. He has proven abilities to lead and manage large and complex organizations with clarity, dexterity, diplomacy and integrity. Beyond his proven strong administration, management and leadership skills, he has equally strong governance credentials having served and led governing Boards.
Dr Qhobela has excellent interpersonal, communications skills and diplomatic acumen with a management style that could best be described as decisive servant leadership.
Priority
Accelerate the implementation of Agenda 2063 through ESTI
This will include but not limited to assisting member states to domesticate Agenda 2063 and the continental strategies to advance ESTI, and also supporting the AUC Chairperson to ensure the success of the AU reform agenda.
Priority
Cooperation, collaboration and coordination for development
The realisation of the goals and aspirations of Agenda 2063 will require us to advance and enable integrative multi-sectoral engagement and commitment within the AUC and between member states. This includes strengthening partnerships with other Commissioners, given the enabling and pervasive role of ESTI in all portfolios. In consultation with the Chair of AUC and other Commissioners, I will promote and propose platforms for the strategic utilisation of STI in the work of the AUC, emphasizing research for evidence led decision making. This is a necessary ingredient for the successful execution of strategies, programmes and projects.
Priority
Imbue STI in AU strategies, programmes, and projects
STI has been recognised as a key enabler in responding to Continental priorities and aspirations. I will thus endeavor to imbue ESTI within the work of the AUC and advocate and promote its use in accelerating the implementation of the 2nd decade of Agenda 2063.
Priority
Technical and Vocational Education, Training and Innovation
Economic and social development is dependent on technology and innovation, delivered through transformative TVET systems. I will thus advance and promote TVET and support member States to develop their respective gender transformative TVET systems and to protect intellectual property while advocating for the use of Open Science. Opportunities for South-South learning for exemplary TVET systems will be also be promoted.
Priority
Africa’s Knowledge Systems
It is imperative to support and retain talent and potential; and ensure that Africa is an active member of the global STI system.
Priority
Gender equity, youth and social inclusion
With sixty percent youth population and over fifty percent women, we must harness the full human resources and potential of the Continent. I will advocate for and advance gender transformative ESTI. It is important to go beyond equality and equity and recognise the intersectionality of gender with other elements that impede inclusion.
Priority
Strengthen and renew strategic partnerships
It is critical to develop and nurture multi-sectorial partnerships and collaborations at regional/international levels in response to global challenges as well as to advance the priorities of the AU. The tenure of the Commission coincides with a period of rapid global challenges, heightened geopolitical uncertainty, urgency to attain the UN SDGs and impetus to find solutions in post COVID-19 pandemic era. As a Commissioner, I will prioritise the support of intra-continental collaboration and cooperation while strengthening existing partnerships and the development of new ones with the Global South and North to address challenges.
