President Chissano of the Republic of Mozambique’s Visit 

History was made on May 13, 2004 when His Excellency Joaquim Alberto Chissano, President of the Republic of Mozambique and Chairman of the African Union became the first sitting Head of State and also of a foreign government to set foot on Louisiana at the Historic Southern University A&M College. The historic visit included a reception by Southern University and State dignitaries from the Mayors of East Baton Rouge, the City of Baker and the City of Zachary, the two houses of legislature and a representative from the governor’s office. At the reception, President Chissano was given the Key to the City of Baker; several resolutions were passed honoring his achievement as a public servant who has devoted his life to help those still struggling to be free from oppressive regimes. President Chissano and his delegation which included the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce and the Mozambiquan Ambassador to the United States traveled to Oscar Louisiana to attend the reception honoring students of the Class of 1960 that were involved in the Civil and Political struggles in American.  

President Chissano spoke at the 2004 and Spring Commencement and congratulated the graduates on their remarkable achievement. President Chissano told the students to use the knowledge they have acquired in this prestigious institution not only to work on their areas of competence, but also to impact upon the global challenges and promoting a sense of togetherness, sharing and solidarity. He stressed that as the future political, academic and business leaders of this great nation, they have a responsibility that goes far beyond the boundaries of the United States.  

The highlight of his visit was the conferment of the Honorary Doctorate of Public Policy for which he accepted with a great sense of responsibility and pledge to share it with Mozambicans and the people of the Continent of Africa. He stated that the award had a greater significance because it came from a highly respected University and a school that is named after one of the most dedicated sons of Africa, a legend and a living hero, President Nelson Mandela. Later on after the commencement exercise, a memorandum of agreement requiring Southern University to exchange students, faculty and other forms of collaborative partnership was signed. 

President Chissano and his delegation attended a dinner reception where he mingled and chatted with the invitees.  He later made a presentation to Dr. Leon R. Tarver II.  He concluded his visit with a tour of the Southern University Museum of Art where he was intensely amazed with Dr. Tarver's Collection.