Francis Petersen has been appointed the new vice-chancellor of the University of Pretoria. (Mlungisi Rowe/Garo Images)
- University of the Free State's Vice-Chancellor Francis Petersen will take up the role of Chancellor of the University of Pretoria from 1 October.
- The announcement was made by Uttar Pradesh Assembly Speaker Xeni Dlamini on Friday.
- He replaces Professor Themba Mosia, who has been serving as the university’s interim vice-chancellor until now.
The University of Pretoria (UP) Council has appointed Francis Petersen as its new Vice-Chancellor.
Contacted by university officials on Friday, UP council chairperson Khuseni Dlamini confirmed that Petersen, who is also vice-chancellor of the University of the Free State, would take up his post on 1 October.
He said Petersen “brings a strong track record of academic leadership and extensive experience in higher education to his new role.”
“With his diverse background in engineering, finance and academic management, he is well prepared to lead the University of Pretoria into a new era of innovation and excellence.”
Commenting on his appointment, Petersen said: “I am extremely honoured to take on the role of new Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Pretoria. I am committed to advancing the university's mission of academic excellence, research innovation and societal impact. I look forward to working closely with the university community to realise our shared vision for the future.”
Throughout his career, Petersen has held various academic positions at Stellenbosch University, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Cape Town and the University of the Free State.
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Petersen’s leadership roles have included dean, provost and vice president, and he “demonstrated extensive experience in academic management at the department, faculty and institutional levels.”
Dlamini said that during his tenure as vice-chancellor of the University of the Free State, Petersen had been committed to academic excellence, university development and community engagement.
“He has played a pivotal role in guiding the university towards sustainable growth and fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. I am confident that under his guidance, we will continue our tradition of academic excellence while blazing new trails in research, teaching and community engagement.”
Others shortlisted for the post include Stellenbosch University Vice-Chancellor Professor Hester Cropper, University of Namibia Vice-Chancellor Professor Kenneth Matheng and University of the Free State Vice-Chancellor Professor Vasu Reddy.
Professor Themba Mosiah is serving as UP's interim vice-chancellor following the resignation of previous vice-chancellor, Professor Tawana Khupe, effective July 31, 2023.
