By Tendai Dhliwayo
THE University of the Witwatersrand has appointed Professor Loyiso Nongxa (50) as its vice-chancellor and principal with effect from 16 May.
Nongxa - a mathematician, and former dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of the Western Cape - has been the acting vice-chancellor and principal since the departure of Norma Reid-Birley last year.
"I am honoured and feel privileged to be offered the position of vice-chancellor and principal of the University of the Witwatersrand," said Nongxa.
"I will need the support of Wits's friends, locally and internationally, people who believe that Wits is a national asset."
Nongxa said he has worked with outstanding individuals since arriving at Wits three years ago and has done his best as deputy vice-chancellor (research). "I believe I have won the confidence and trust of everybody who trusted me ... The biggest challenge is demonstrating that the confidence and trust is not misplaced."
Commenting on Nongxa's appointment, chairperson of the Wits Council, Judge Edwin Cameron, said that "Professor Nongxa was selected because of his great integrity, sound character, drive, energy, academic and intellectual stature, and independence of mind. He has articulated strong views in Council and elsewhere about his vision for Wits."
In deciding to appoint Professor Nongxa, Council had supportive responses from the University Senate - comprising all full professors and representatives of the academic and support staff and the student body - and Forum - comprising representatives of various sectors of the University.
