Mpumalanga university appoints new vice-chancellor

Prof Meyiwa will assume her new role on October 1

- By Tshwarelo eseng Mogakane

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) has appointed acclaimed feminist scholar and higher education leader, Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa, as its new vice-chancellor.

Her appointment was confirmed by the university council, with the official media announcement made on Friday.

Prof Meyiwa is set to assume the role on October 1, succeeding founding vice-chancellor Prof Thoko Mayekiso, who has led the university since its establishment in 2014.

Among her immediate priorities, Prof Meyiwa is expected to iron out UMP’s strained relationship with NSFAS ahead of the 2026 academic year, following a turbulent start to 2025.

The university faced serious challenges including delays in student registration, the non-payment of accommodation allowances, and debt-related exclusions — issues that left hundreds of students in limbo and more than 150 landlords unpaid for months.

These NSFAS-related difficulties have since prompted parliamentary scrutiny, the appointment of a new NSFAS board, and a public commitment to restore trust and clear backlogs.

Prof Meyiwa will be expected to ensure smoother coordination between the university and the national scheme to prevent a repeat of the crisis.