by Reatlegile Ratlagane
Recently appointed UNESCO Chairholder in African Integration and Innovation, Prof Mulatu Zerihun, Head of the Tshwane University of Technology’s Department of Economics, makes a significant societal impact through his extensive research and contributions to economic and social development across the continent.
Prof Zerihun was officially appointed as the UNESCO Chair from March 2025 until 2029. This prestigious chair, established at TUT under the leadership of the Faculty of Economics and Finance, reflects both his commitment and the institution's vision for advancing Africa’s integration, innovation and development agenda.
In a recent interview, Prof Zerihun highlighted the global scope of UNESCO’s academic network. “There are more than 850 UNESCO Chairs and 50 UNITWIN Networks globally,” he explained. “A UNESCO Chair is a team led by a higher education or research institution that partners with UNESCO to advance knowledge and practice in a shared priority area.”
With more than two decades in academia, the NRF C2-rated researcher holds an M.Sc. in Economics from Addis Ababa University, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from TUT and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Pretoria. He is considered the most published scholar within the Faculty of Economics and Finance.
“I have authored more than 150 scholarly works, including over 100 accredited journal articles, several book chapters, a monograph, working papers and numerous conference presentations,” he elucidated. “My research spans macroeconomic policy analysis, institutional and development economics, innovation studies and socio-economic transformation, with a strong focus on African economic integration and the reduction of poverty and inequality.”
In recognition of his outstanding contribution in academics, Prof Zerihun has not only been recognised as a Professor Extraordinaire at the University of the Western Cape (UCT), which reflects the international recognition of the impact he has in his field, but his work is also acknowledged by the ResearchGate and Google Scholar, global platforms researchers use to find academic work.
Determined to pass on his knowledge and experience to his students, Prof Zerihun currently mentors 30 postgraduate and postdoctoral students. His research collaboration spans multiple continents, showing his commitment to building the next generation of African scholars.
“I am deeply committed to contributing to societal development,” he said. “I have served as a Senate representative for the Faculty of Economics and Finance for more than five years, actively engaging in the review and formulation of policies related to research, teaching, learning and communication. Through both theoretical and applied research, I aim to help shape resilient African economic systems.”
The father to four boys also serves as an auditor and financial advisor at his local church, where he leads financial literacy campaigns. He uses his expertise not only in an academic environment but also to give back to his community through financial guidance.
UNESCO Chairholder in African Integration and Innovation, Prof Mulatu Zerihun, Head of the Tshwane University of Technology’s Department of Economics