The niversity of South Africa's (Unisa) Council has reappointed Professor Puleng LenkaBula as Principal and Vice-Chancellor for another five-year term, effective January 1, 2026.
This decision follows a thorough review of her first term, which was deemed robust, rigorous and fair.
Professor LenkaBula made history in 2021 by becoming the first woman to hold the position of Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Unisa, a university with almost 150 years of history.
Her first term has been marked by significant achievements, including improved scientific output, teaching, and learning, as well as increased internationalisation and partnerships.
Under her leadership, Unisa has seen notable growth in commitment from academics, researchers, and support staff. The university's academic rankings and financial growth have also improved significantly.
Chairperson of the Unisa Council, Dr Dan Mosia, expressed the council's confidence in LenkaBula's leadership, stating that she has been instrumental in fostering sustainable growth and stability at the institution.
He 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.”
LenkaBula has expressed her gratitude for the reappointment, committing to advancing Unisa's mission of shaping Africa's intellectual futures and creating opportunities for students and staff to succeed.
She said: “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.”