Lincoln University is honored to welcome Professor Kealeboga J. Maphunye, a distinguished political scientist, scholar, researcher, election observer from South Africa, and Fulbright Program Scholar-In-Residence at our Department of Political Science. With a rich academic background and expertise in politics and public administration, focusing on democracy, elections, and governance, Professor Maphunye brings a wealth of knowledge and a global, but equally Afrocentric, perspective to the university community. His journey to Lincoln University is one of resilience, determination, perseverance, dedication, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to education, primarily inspired by his role in the 1976 Soweto Uprisings near Johannesburg, Soweto, where he grew up.
A Global Journey to Lincoln
Professor Maphunye’s connection to Lincoln University began when he applied to several institutions worldwide for a visiting professorship around 2018. His introduction to Lincoln came through a recommendation from a colleague in South Africa, his home country, who advised him to consider Lincoln University a suitable academic home to grow intellectually and boost his knowledge and expertise. However, he faced delays, other obstacles, and uncertainty like many during the COVID-19 pandemic following the descent of much of the world into numerous bouts of lockdowns. After nearly two years of looking for alternatives, waiting, and an unexpected email from Lincoln, he was allowed to pursue the Fulbright Scholarship, marking the beginning of a remarkable partnership and academic career.
Reflecting on his journey, Professor Maphunye shared, “I applied to Lincoln University because of its legacy and mission. When I received that email after so long, it felt like the right opportunity at the right time. The Fulbright Program provided the support needed to make this partnership a reality, and I’m excited to contribute to the Lincoln community.” He believes that being at Lincoln and in the US will enable him to share knowledge with like-minded scholars and students, which will enhance his academic career and help him contribute to education and expertise in the world.
Research, Teaching, and Cultural Exchange
At Lincoln, Professor Maphunye is conducting groundbreaking research and creating unique opportunities for cultural exchange. His research focuses on democracy, governance, and elections—particularly relevant in today's political climate. His current work includes a study on the November 2024 U.S. elections and the unique political landscape of Philadelphia, Lincoln’s neighboring city, in hosting major election rallies and presidential election debates. This gives students a rare chance to engage deeply with national and global issues, stimulating their intellect, enriching their academic experience, and significantly boosting their post-university career prospects.
“I’m currently working on a paper about U.S. elections and the political processes here,” said Maphunye. “But what I bring to Lincoln goes beyond my research. I am passionate about ethics, accountability, and leadership in Africa, and I am in discussions with the university’s department to develop initiatives around these themes.”
Beyond the classroom, Professor Maphunye is deeply invested in connecting with students and faculty. His teaching goes beyond lecturing; he engages in thought-provoking discussions that challenge students to think critically about global issues, especially about Africa and his native South Africa. These discussions not only broaden their perspectives but also inspire them to strive for personal growth and a better understanding of the intricacies of global politics. He plans to host “brown bag” sessions- informal lunchtime conversations where students and faculty can explore topics like African governance, the role of democracy, and U.S.-Africa relations.
Impact on Lincoln University Students
One of the highlights of Professor Maphunye’s time at Lincoln thus far has been his engagement with the Student Government Association (SGA). During Lincoln’s Convocation, he shared his life story and key messages with students, encouraging them to focus on their dreams, overcome challenges, and persevere through adversity. In that engagement at the University’s grand ICC Hall, he reminded the members of the SGA that positions of responsibility also entailed accountability to their communities or the people they represent.
“I told them to keep their focus on the bigger picture,” Maphunye recounted. “They must continue dreaming and striving to make a significant impact with the resources they have at Lincoln. It’s about perseverance. I come from a difficult background, growing up during apartheid in South Africa, but I never let my circumstances define me.” Among those circumstances were the scary realities of growing up in crime and gang-infested neighborhoods and in a female-headed household, as his father died when Maphunye was very young. Moreover, he endured corporal punishment, walking long distances to dilapidated or poorly-resourced schools, usually on an empty stomach, and experiencing first-hand the brutality of the apartheid police on black South Africans.
In the classroom, Professor Maphunye encourages a cross-pollination of ideas, challenging students to critically examine global issues while sharing their perspectives and not merely relying on traditional ideas about society. This exchange of ideas fosters a sense of community and shared learning, connecting students and faculty in their pursuit of understanding and growth.
A Lifelong Advocate for Lincoln University
As his residency continues, Professor Maphunye envisions a lasting impact from his time at Lincoln University. He sees himself as a lifelong ambassador for the institution, eager to promote Lincoln’s rich history and academic excellence to students and scholars in Africa and anywhere else he might go globally.
“After my time at Lincoln, I will continue to be an advocate for this incredible university,” he said. “I will tell students and researchers in Africa about the opportunities here. Lincoln has a rich history, and I want to make sure that others are aware of what it has to offer.” But part of the equation is challenging and engaging students, academics and intellectuals outside the United States to consider what they can contribute to Lincoln as education and knowledge share a dual relationship.
Through his advocacy, Professor Maphunye aims to strengthen Lincoln’s international ties and help more African students and scholars discover the opportunities available at the university, including promoting cultural exchanges by faculty and students at Lincoln with their counterparts in Africa.
Professor Maphunye’s presence at Lincoln University is a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering global connections and academic excellence. His research, teaching, and dedication to student engagement are already making a significant impact, and his long-term vision for collaboration between Lincoln and African scholars will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. Ultimately, such social and cultural exchanges should result in mutual understanding and benefit the people and educational institutions in the US and the rest of Africa. Professor Maphunye’s work will also encourage academic, civic, and other relations with other African countries.
--------------------------
About the Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program
The Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program is a prestigious initiative that brings visiting scholars from around the world to U.S. colleges and universities, enriching the educational experience by diversifying curricula, fostering international engagement, and building global connections. Professor Maphunye’s residency at Lincoln University exemplifies this mission. As a political scientist from South Africa, his research on democracy and governance and his dedication to cross-cultural dialogue serve as a vital resource to both students and faculty. Through his research and outreach, Professor Maphunye helps Lincoln further internationalize its curriculum, allowing students to engage deeply with global issues. The Fulbright Program’s legacy of fostering intellectual exchange and its notable alumni—including 62 Nobel Laureates and 89 Pulitzer Prize winners—underscores its importance in building meaningful people-to-people connections that address complex global challenges.
