News & Media

Unisa strengthens its global academic footprint in archival research

Share

Unisa has expanded its international academic influence through the prestigious appointment of Prof Mpho Ngoepe, Executive Director of the Unisa Library and Information Services (LIS), to the editorial board of Archival Science. This internationally acclaimed journal, published by Springer in The Netherlands, is indexed in Web of Science, Scopus and UGC CARE, with an impact factor of 1.4. It is widely regarded for advancing scholarly research in archival theory and practice.

Unisa-strengthens-global-academic-footprint-archival-research1.jpg

Prof Mpho Ngoepe

Ngoepe’s appointment represents a major professional milestone and signifies the increasing global recognition of African scholarship in the field of archives and records management.

"I am deeply honoured by this appointment," said Ngoepe. "It represents a personal achievement and a broader opportunity to elevate African perspectives within global archival discourse."

Renowned for his pioneering work in memory institutions and postcolonial archival systems, Ngoepe has spent decades shaping and sharpening the field of archives and records management. His research has influenced policy development and educational programmes across South Africa and Africa, earning him international recognition as a leading voice in archival justice and decolonial scholarship.

Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa, Vice-Principal of Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation (RPSIC), hailed the appointment as a strong endorsement of Unisa’s research excellence:

"Professor Ngoepe’s appointment is a powerful validation of the calibre of scholarship emanating from Unisa, particularly within the LIS. For the RPSIC portfolio, it affirms our sustained efforts to promote research excellence, foster global engagement, and assert thought leadership. His role on such a prestigious editorial board enhances the visibility of archival studies in South Africa and beyond and reinforces Unisa’s position as a key player in shaping international discourse in this specialised field. This milestone underscores our commitment to advance African voices in academic publishing and influence global research agendas from decolonial and contextually grounded perspectives."

Echoing this sentiment, Dr Lesiba Ledwaba, Director of Library Systems and Support Services, commented: "In his new role, Professor Ngoepe will participate in the peer-review process, support editorial decision-making, and help steer the journal’s strategic focus, particularly in identifying emerging trends in archival science. His presence on the board elevates Unisa’s visibility and ensures that African realities, priorities, and innovations are represented in global research agendas."

This milestone complements Unisa’s broader strategic goal of fostering locally relevant and globally recognised research. It also supports the university’s commitment to mentoring emerging scholars, strengthening research networks, and promoting inclusive knowledge production.

* By Itumeleng Mpete, Marketing Coordinator, Library and Information Services

Share

Publish date: 2025-06-15 00:00:00.0

Unisa Shop