It was a day of celebration and pride for supporters of Lesetja Kganyago, governor of the South African Reserve Bank, when he was officially installed as chancellor of Stellenbosch University last Friday (20 June).
Accepting the 16th university chancellorship this past January, his official robing by Dr Nicky Newton-King, chairperson of the SU Council, assisted by SU registrar Dr Ronel Retief, took place at the SU Konservatorium’s Endler Hall to resounding applause and joyous song from family, friends and colleagues.
“I accept this role with a deep sense of responsibility, aware of the complex legacy that I inherit and the expectations that lie ahead,” Kganyago said in his inaugural address to the assembly.
He noted how, during his own student days, he played his own part among thousands of students across the country who took an active stand against the apartheid government’s efforts to limit university autonomy.
The new chancellor urged that despite the challenges currently faced by higher education, which may well be different, the integrity of higher education should be safeguarded.
“We must safeguard this freedom and honour it with curiosity, engagement and critical enquiry,” he stressed.
For his part SU rector and vice-chancellor Prof Deresh Ramjugernath praised Kganyago as a leader of “exceptional courage, wisdom and steadiness”.
He said Kganyago’s proven attributes make him very well-suited to his role at the university.
“Chancellor, we are deeply honoured that you have accepted this role,” Ramjugernath said. “Your wisdom, stature and service-oriented leadership will be a source of inspiration to our students, staff, alumni and partners.”
The chancellor’s role is a ceremonial one; he is titular head of the university and is elected in accordance with the university statutes. The incumbent serves a five-year term and may be re-elected for only one more term.
