Nust council promises new VC soon

A member on the Namibia University of Science and Technology's newly established council says it is working on the appointment of a new vice-chancellor to fill the gap left by its founding boss, Professor Tjama Tjivikua.The institution has been without a vice-chancellor after the previous board failed to appoint a suitable candidate to the position.According to the source, the new vice-chancellor was expected to be appointed before the middle of next year.“The appointment of a VC is crucial to ensure leadership at the institution. It cannot go beyond six months from the date of appointment,” the council source said, speaking off the record.The institution was left without a vice-chancellor following the surprise resignation of vice-chancellor for administration and finance, Morné Du Toit, earlier this month. While he tendered his resignation as vice-chancellor, Du Toit signalled his intent to lead the institution on a temporary basis until his successor would be appointed by the new council. The recruitment process has been plagued by controversy since the departure of Tjivikua, who resigned in April this year.The recruitment of a new vice-chancellor started on 21 September when an advertisement was placed in local newspapers.Five candidates were shortlisted for the position. They are: University of Namibia academics Frednand Gideon and Erold Naomab (the only Namibians), Nigerian national Abraham Ogwu, Botswana national Otlogetswe Totolo and Turkish national Said Irandoust.The position was again advertised in March.In a letter written on 30 May to then Nust council chairperson Esi Shimming-Chase, higher education minister Itah Kandjii-Murangi said the process took longer than expected.She reminded the council members that their term ends in August this year and that she is already recruiting new council members.The new vice-chancellor is required to hold a doctorate in natural science, technology, engineering or mathematics from an internationally recognised university, with at least ten years of executive leadership experience in higher education and a deep understanding of the operations and affairs of the institution. OGONE TLHAGE

Nust council promises new VC soon

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-07-04

Please login to leave a comment

Nust council promises new VC soon

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-07-04

Please login to leave a comment

Login