New Vice-Chancellor Ramjugernath aims for global excellence at Stellenbosch University

Academic excellence is front and centre as one of three focus areas for Stellenbosch University’s new Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, over the next few years.

- STAFF REPORTER

His other key priorities are people, culture and processes; and, partner-ships and sustainability.

Ramjugernath, 52, officially stepped into his new role yesterday morning.

He takes over from Prof Wim de Villiers who completed two terms at the helm.

“Stellenbosch has a proud history of excellence in learning and teaching. Under Prof De Villiers we have also become a strong research-intensive university. But we cannot be compla-cent. We must move from good to great - continually striving to improve our teaching, research, innovation and social impact,” Ramjugernath said.

A seasoned and highly experienced higher education leader with exten-sive executive experience in the sector in South Africa, Ramjugernath served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Technology at SU since January 2015.