By Lungile Ntimba
Unisa’s council has reappointed Prof. Puleng LenkaBula as Principal and Vice-Chancellor for another five years, effective 1 January 2026.
This decision follows a thorough review process of her initial term, which was deemed robust, rigorous and fair.
She was appointed as the first woman vice-chancellor in the University’s almost 150 year-history in 2021.
Her first term has been marked by significant achievements, including improved scientific output, teaching and learning, as well as increased internationalisation and partnerships.
Unisa council chairperson DD Mosia said the council remained confident in LenkaBula’s leadership.
“…she has been instrumental in fostering sustainable growth and stability at the institution and she is ideally positioned to lead Unisa into its next chapter of growth and innovation,” Moisa said in statement.
LenkaBula expressed her gratitude for the reappointment, committing to advancing Unisa’s mission of “Shaping Africa’s Intellectual Futures”.
“I am deeply honoured and appreciative of the confidence expressed by the university’s 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,” LenkaBula said.
“I look forward to working closely with the various university communities, alumni and diverse stakeholders to bring this vision to life.”
Meanwhile, the African National Congress commended the council for recognising LenkaBula’s commitment to promoting diversity and gender equality in higher education.
“Her reappointment is a testament to her efforts in aligning the university’s academic programmes with the nation’s economic needs, fostering a strong skills base and addressing historical inequalities in education,” said the ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri.
She praised LenkaBula’s historic leadership, saying she has broadly enhanced Unisa’s institutional stability, teaching and learning, while advancing its transformation agenda.
The ANC reaffirmed its support for higher education as a pillar for building a knowledge-driven economy and an equitable society.
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