A distinguished Liberian academic, Dr. Josephus Moses Gray, Associate Professor of International Relations at the University of Liberia, has been elected to the Seventh Council of the International Confucian Association (ICA), alongside 21 other scholars from Africa. The election took place during the ICA Council Meeting held at the Beijing International Hotel on Saturday, securing a five-year term for the council members.
Dr. Gray, who also serves as Dean of the Amos C. Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Liberia, is currently in Beijing, China, participating in a five-day International Conference commemorating the 2575th Anniversary of Confucius’ birth. The conference, which began on October 19, 2024, at the Golden Hall of the Great Hall of the People, has attracted over 120 prominent professors, scholars, and academics from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and other regions.
During the event, key ICA officials, including the President, Executive Vice President, Vice Presidents, Council Chair, Vice Council Chairs, and Executive Committee Representatives, were elected for the next five years. Representatives from across Africa, including West, North, East, and Southern Africa, are playing a significant role in shaping the future of this prestigious organization.
The conference has brought together an esteemed panel of global experts, including former Japanese Prime Minister Fukuda Yasuo, former Italian Prime Minister Massimo D’Alema, and UNESCO Deputy Director-General Qu Xing. The gathering serves as a platform for scholars to exchange ideas and promote Confucianism’s role in global development.
This marks Dr. Gray’s third participation in the ICA Congress and Council Meeting, having previously attended in Beijing and Rabat, Morocco. During the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum in Beijing, Dr. Gray delivered a keynote address on the theme “China and African Countries’ Independent Exploration of Development Paths: Experience and Inspiration.” In 2021, he also presented a paper at the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum titled “Building a Community of Shared Future for All Mankind and a New Era of Sustaining Peace and Economic Growth in Africa.”
Confucianism, which originated in China, has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon. The ICA is dedicated to promoting the study and dissemination of Confucian thought, organizing academic conferences, supporting educational initiatives, and fostering international cooperation in Confucian studies. The association aims to unite scholars and institutions worldwide to advance the application of Confucianism in addressing contemporary global challenges.
Dr. Gray’s participation in the ICA reflects his significant contributions to academic research and international relations. Appointed Dean of the Amos C. Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities in 2020, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing academic excellence at the University of Liberia. He holds a Ph.D. in International Relations and Diplomacy from HELP-CEDS University in Paris, where he earned distinction for his doctoral dissertation titled The Effect of Diplomacy.
In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Gray has held prominent positions in Liberia’s public sector, including Senior Policy Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Assistant Foreign Minister for Public Affairs and Diplomacy. He also served as Liberia’s Political Counselor in Paris, Minister Counselor at Liberia’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, and Charge d’Affaires to the Swiss Federation.
Throughout his career, Dr. Gray has published over 300 peer-reviewed articles in international journals and authored several books. His notable works include Liberia’s Emerging Democracy and The Effect of Diplomacy: Liberia, US, China’s Triangular Relations, which are available in multiple languages and distributed globally. His research interests span foreign policy, international relations, diplomacy, and the development of Liberia’s post-war governance structure.
As an educator, Dr. Gray has supervised numerous graduate theses, both at the University of Liberia’s IBB Graduate Program and other institutions. His role in shaping the next generation of Liberian scholars, coupled with his international engagements, underscores his commitment to advancing Liberia’s academic and diplomatic reputation on the global stage.
The ICA’s efforts to promote Confucian studies globally align with Dr. Gray’s broader vision of fostering cross-cultural understanding and sustainable development. His election to the ICA Council positions him to further contribute to the global dialogue on Confucianism and its relevance in contemporary society.
In addition to his academic and diplomatic endeavors, Dr. Gray holds advanced certifications in modern journalism, diplomacy, and research methodology from institutions in China, France, the USA, South Africa, and Switzerland. His work has earned him recognition as a leading figure in Liberian academia and diplomacy.
Dr. Gray’s involvement with the ICA marks another milestone in his illustrious career, furthering his influence in both academic and international spheres. His leadership within the University of Liberia and his participation in global forums demonstrate his commitment to bridging cultures and fostering intellectual collaboration between Liberia, China, and the broader international community.
