A Celebrated Farewell for Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa as She Takes the Helm at the University of Mpumalanga
On 29 July 2025, academic, diplomatic, and government leaders gathered at the glamorous Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Pretoria Menlyn to bid farewell to Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, who is stepping into her new role as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mpumalanga (UMP). The event marked the close of her impactful tenure as Vice-Principal of Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation, and Commercialisation at UNISA, and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in South African higher education leadership.
The farewell was an elegant evening of tribute and celebration, reflecting Prof Meyiwa’s far-reaching influence across academia, policy, and community development. As a scholar, thought leader, and transformation champion, her contribution to shaping South African education and advancing indigenous knowledge systems has been widely acknowledged.
Messages of support and admiration poured in from across sectors and borders, underscoring the high regard in which Prof Meyiwa is held.
Mr Chief Mabizela, representing Universities South Africa (USAf), commended her for championing collaborative research and innovation in the higher education sector. His remarks highlighted her leadership during challenging times and her role in reimagining the future of universities in Africa.
In a strong show of continental support, Ambassador Andre Anzapayeke, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps for African Countries, and Ambassador Paul Amoru, Ambassador of Uganda to South Africa, extended heartfelt congratulations, lauding Prof Meyiwa’s efforts to promote African academic solidarity and gender equity.
A powerful local government presence further affirmed her impact on regional development and transformation. HE Zanele Sefuba, MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture in the Free State Province, and HE Lesetja Dikgale, Executive Mayor of Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, applauded her commitment to community empowerment and inclusive leadership.
Academia was equally represented, with moving tributes from Prof Nompumelelo Zondi, Vice-Dean at the University of the Free State (UFS), and Prof Bhekie Mamba, Executive Dean at UNISA. Both emphasized her scholarly integrity, mentorship legacy, and unwavering dedication to research excellence.
The evening also showcased leaders from business and civil society. Celebrated entrepreneur and humanitarian Dr Yvonne Chaka Chaka-Mhinga, along with economic strategist Dr Kennedy Dakile, praised her for bridging the gap between academia and real-world impact. From the built environment to tourism, Ms Sandi Mbutuma, Director at Azzaro Quantity Surveyors, and Dr Cuthbert Ncube, President of the African Tourism Board, recognised Prof Meyiwa's ability to link education with sustainable development and industry transformation.
As she takes up the role of Vice-Chancellor at UMP on 1 October 2025, Prof Meyiwa carries with her a legacy of excellence and a clear mandate to position the university as a centre for innovation, African knowledge, and transformative leadership. The farewell was not only a celebration of her achievements but also a resounding endorsement of her future impact.
