UCT Hosts Inaugural 3D@UCT - Distinguished Diplomat Dialogues

Cape Town, South Africa, 18 November 2024 — The University of Cape Town (UCT) International Office was delighted to launch the inaugural 3D@UCT - Distinguished Diplomat Dialogues on 18 November 2024 at the Hasso Plattner School of Design Thinking Afrika. This convening is focused on dynamic discussions about global affairs with ambassadors, consuls-general, students, staff, alumni and external stakeholders.

Fostering Dynamic International Discussions

The first event in this prestigious series featured U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, Dr Reuben Brigety II, who delivered compelling insights into key global challenges and opportunities. Ambassador Brigety II discussed pressing topics, including bilateral relations between the U.S. and other nations, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), trade terms, the G20 agenda, international conflict and the role of diplomacy in addressing global challenges. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration and discussed strategies that can advance both U.S. and South African interests.

Ambassador Brigety II expressed his enthusiasm for engaging with the UCT community and that these dialogues are vital to fostering mutual understanding and collaboration on a global scale.

A Testament to UCT’s International Partnerships

Welcoming the attendees, Prof. Jeff Murugan, UCT Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation said, "It is a great pleasure to welcome students, staff and external guests to the first of a series of exciting and high-level discussions on global affairs. The presence of the U.S. is a testament to the enduring partnership between UCT and the United States, which spans across disciplines such as computing, medicine and public policy. This event reflects UCT’s commitment to global excellence.

Vision for International Citizenship and Collaboration

Quinton Johnson, PhD, Director of UCT’s International Office, who established the 3D@UCT convening emphasized that, “the purpose of 3D@UCT is to create a global public square for distinguished diplomat dialogues focused on international affairs that shape the world. By bringing together leaders, we hope to strengthen international education and global citizenship for a better world.”

This inaugural event set the stage for exciting dialogues, which will continue to explore global leadership and diplomacy with an eye toward addressing the most pressing issues of our time. UCT’s International Office is committed to ensuring these engagements contribute to a deeper understanding of international developments while amplifying the university’s role as a global catalyst in education and thought leadership.