Meet the Faculty: Moses Khisa

Moses Khisa is an Associate Professor of Political Science in the School of Public and International Affairs with a joint appointment in Africana Studies. He is a research associate with the Centre for Basic Research in Kampala and Interim Secretary of Society for Justice and National Unity, a think-tank based in Kampala. He also writes a weekly opinion column for the Kampala Daily Monitor (www.monitor.co.ug).

How long have you been at NC State? Which classes do you usually teach?

I came to NC State in 2016. I teach introductory level courses in comparative politics, international relations, and the African Diaspora. I also teach politics of the world economy and a graduate seminar in African politics.

Why does the study of political science matter?

Because it is precisely concerned with matters of society and the public, politics and policies that have a bearing on our lives. Politics affects us all whether or not we are interested in political debate and discourse. Studying political science helps us make sense of some of the most puzzling and pertinent questions that confront us everyday, both nationally and internationally, domestic and global.

What is your favorite thing about NC State?

It’s a truly university campus where we can freely pursue ideas and scholarship. We Think and Do the Extraordinary. 

What has surprised you most about your students this year?

They have been excellent and resilient in their assignments and exams considering the tough circumstances.

What is one thing your students would be surprised to know about you?

I’ve been around the world quite a bit, but the more I’ve travelled by plane the more I’ve dreaded flying! I’ve been to India, UK, Denmark, Norway, Canada, The Netherlands, and more than a dozen African countries – Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. I’ve transited several times through Belgium, Dubai, France, Turkey, Qatar, and Italy. The only continent I haven’t been to is Latin America.

If you could time travel, what advice would you give your college-age self?

To enjoy college life a lot more than I did.

What led you to a career as a professor of political science?

I have always had keen interest in current affairs and global developments from the time I was in elementary school! As a college student, I was deeply fascinated by the world of ideas and the history of political thought. By the time I finished my undergraduate studies as a political science major, I was fully convinced this is where I wanted to place my life-time career focus.

In what area do you focus your research?

My research is on understanding changes in civil military relations in Africa, the politics of institutional change and transformation, political economy of development, Africa’s international relations and security regionalism, trends in authoritarianism and democratization processes.

What is the next thing you hope to accomplish on your wishlist?

Finish a long-stalled book project and start a new one. Spend some time in a Latin American country!

Favorite place on campus for a selfie?

Court of North Carolina.

The Krispy Kreme Challenge – do you eat and run or carry your donuts?

Carry.