UNISA Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Puleng LenkaBula Reappointed

UNISA Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Puleng LenkaBula Reappointed. The University of South Africa (UNISA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strong leadership and academic excellence by reappointing Professor Puleng LenkaBula as its Principal and Vice-Chancellor for a second term.

The announcement was made by the Unisa Council on Monday, 9 December 2024, confirming that her new five-year tenure will commence on 1 January 2026. This decision underscores the confidence in her vision and leadership, which have been pivotal in the institution’s growth and transformation.

Professor LenkaBula made history in January 2021 when she became the first woman to hold the position of Principal and Vice-Chancellor in Unisa’s nearly 150-year history. Her first term has been characterized by remarkable achievements, reinforcing the university’s status as a leading institution in higher education, research, and innovation.

Her reappointment aligns with the Higher Education Act 101 of 1997, which permits university principals in South Africa to serve a second consecutive term upon review and approval by the Council. The decision followed a rigorous assessment process that evaluated her leadership effectiveness and the impact of her policies on the university’s progress.

During her first term, Professor LenkaBula spearheaded a range of strategic initiatives that have significantly enhanced Unisa’s reputation. Her leadership has led to:

• Improved scientific output: A substantial increase in research publications and contributions to global academic discourse.
• Advancements in teaching and learning: Strengthening of Unisa’s distance learning programmes, making quality education more accessible.
• Growth in international partnerships: Expansion of global collaborations with renowned institutions, further positioning Unisa on the international stage.
• Enhanced student-centred approach: A focus on improving the overall student experience, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring better academic support.
• Financial and institutional growth: Strengthening the financial sustainability of the university while increasing funding opportunities for students and researchers.

Dr Dan Mosia, Chairperson of the Unisa Council, expressed the Council’s strong support for Professor LenkaBula and the transformative impact of her leadership.

“Council reaffirms its confidence in the leadership of Professor LenkaBula. She has been instrumental in fostering sustainable growth and stability at the institution and is ideally positioned to lead Unisa into its next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Reacting to her reappointment, Professor LenkaBula conveyed deep appreciation for the trust placed in her by the university’s governing body. She emphasized her dedication to advancing Unisa’s mission and vision:

“I am deeply honoured and appreciative of the confidence expressed by the University Council in me. I am committed, together with the University’s management, to advancing the university’s mission of Shaping Africa’s Intellectual Futures and to continue to create opportunities for students and staff alike to succeed. I look forward to working closely with the various university communities, alumni, and diverse stakeholders to bring this vision to life.”

With her reappointment, Professor LenkaBula is poised to steer Unisa towards greater achievements in the realms of academia, digital transformation, and inclusive education. Her strategic vision is expected to further elevate Unisa’s standing as a leader in open distance learning (ODL) and research excellence, benefiting not just South Africa but the entire continent.

As Unisa embarks on this new chapter under Professor Puleng LenkaBula’s leadership, the institution remains committed to fostering academic excellence, research innovation, and student success, ensuring it continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of higher education in Africa.

Professor Puleng LenkaBula’s reappointment marks a significant milestone in Unisa’s journey towards academic and institutional excellence. Her visionary leadership and commitment to innovation will undoubtedly shape the university’s future, ensuring its continued impact on higher education in South Africa and beyond.