Tebogo Msimanga |
The Council of the University of South Africa (UNISA) announced that since the establishment of the university 148 years ago, it will have its first female Principal and Vice Chancellor with effect from 01 January 2021.
This follows the approval of the appointment of Professor Puleng LenkaBula as the incoming Principal and Vice Chancellor during the special sitting of the UNISA Council on Thursday, 05 November 2020.
The unanimous decision by the UNISA Council follows a rigorous selection process to fill the position, including the requisite consideration and recommendation of candidates by the Executive Committees of the UNISA Senate (SENEX) and the UNISA Institutional Forum (IF).
UNISA said to ensure a smooth hand-over, Council resolved to extend the term of office of the incumbent, Professor Mandla Makhanya, for a period of four months after it expires at the end of the year (i.e. until April 2021).
“Council is of the firm belief that this appointment bodes well for the future of our university. As Council, we commit ourselves to providing LenkaBula with the necessary support to ensure that she succeeds in taking our vision of transformation and excellent” read a statement issued by UNISA.