Keynote Lecture at the University of Dschang

Prof James A. Robinson: An Exceptional Platform to Rethink Africa

*Dschang, UDs/SIC – 06/04/25*– The University of Dschang experienced a moment of rare intellectual intensity on Wednesday, June 4th, 2025. Amphitheater 600 hosted an exceptional lecture by Professor James A. Robinson, renowned British economist and Nobel Laureate in Economics 2024, on the theme : Paths towards the periphery.

A global figure in political economy, a recognized specialist in comparative politics and institutional development, Professor Robinson captivated an audience of over 600 participants composed of the President of the University’s Council Chair , the Rector, members of the Rectoral Council, the deans of the faculties of Economics from all public universities, invited economists, researchers, and students.

The session, brilliantly moderated by Professor Avom Désiré, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management at the University of Yaoundé II, opened a window into the intellectual world of a scholar described as “a true elephant of knowledge,” author and co-author of an impressive body of work and field researcher in numerous countries: from Botswana to Chile, including the DRC, Haiti, the Philippines, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Colombia.

Africa: Wealth in People

At the heart of his talk was Africa and its endogenous models of development. Professor Robinson strongly defended the idea that precolonial African social structures offered a solid foundation for thinking about inclusive development. According to him, wealth should not be measured solely in terms of material assets, but more so in terms of human relationships, social capital, and community cohesion.

“Africa has a remarkable tradition of complex political structures long before colonization,” he reminded the audience, emphasizing the African philosophy of “wealth in people” as the foundation of traditional societies.

He pointed out that in many African countries where he has conducted research (notably in the DRC, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone), the challenge lies in building inclusive institutions, capable of generating broad-based incentives, diffusing power, and involving citizens in governance. These institutions, both economic and political, are essential for building effective states and participatory democracies.

Africa and AI: An Unexpected Opportunity

Asked about the transformations induced by artificial intelligence (AI), James A. Robinson offered an optimistic perspective. While AI is rapidly expanding and tends to replace low-skilled jobs in the West, it cannot displace the social competencies that are the strength of African societies.

“Jobs based on human relationships will not be replaced by AI. And in this area, Africans excel,” he stated.
“By 2100, 40% of the world’s population will be Africans. And already today, 42% of all young people in the world are Africans. The future of the world will pass through Africa.”

A Platform to Rewrite the African Narrative

Beyond the lecture, this scientific day provided a valuable platform for collective reflection. For the African economists in attendance, it was an opportunity to engage with a Nobel Laureate and to collectively rethink the conditions for development based on African realities.

Through this platform, the University of Dschang confirmed its role as a major academic hub, capable of attracting the most eminent voices in global science in service of a more inclusive and equitable African future — and above all, one envisioned by Africans themselves./RN