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At its sitting on Monday, 9 December 2024, the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) Council announced the re-appointment of Prof Puleng LenkaBula as Principal and Vice-Chancellor, for another five years, effective 1 January 2026. 

This announcement follows a recent review process undertaken of her first term of office. Council was satisfied that the process was robust, rigorous and turned out to be fair. 

The decision by the Unisa Council is in line with the Higher Education Act 101 of 1997 in South Africa, which allows a university principal to be reappointed for a second consecutive term after their first term expires. 

Prof LenkaBula was appointed as the first woman Principal and Vice-Chancellor in the University’s almost 150 year-history in January 2021. Her first term has been marked by notable achievements in the University’s improved scientific output, teaching and learning, and research; increase in internationalisation and partnerships, student-centredness and improvement in the university’s academic rankings and financial growth. Under her leadership, there has also been a notable increase in commitment from academics, researchers and support staff.

Speaking on behalf of the Unisa Council, Chairperson, Dr Dan Mosia said, “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.”  

Commenting on her reappointment, Prof LenkaBula stated, “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”.

Issued by University of South Africa