Wits installs new Vice Chancellor, Prof Zeblon Zenzele Vilakazi
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Photo: twitter.com\WitsUniversity
University of Witwatersrand newly appointed Vice Chancellor Prof Zeblon Zenzele Vilakazi has called on universities to focus on developing academically excellent graduates who leave their mark on society.
“We must continue to conduct world-class research and foster innovation and entrepreneurship; and we must use our location in the economic heartland of Africa to lead from the Global South.”
He said these words during his hooding by Wits chancellor Dr Judy Dlamini.
The ceremony was also blessed by the presence of former Wits chancellor Dikgang Moseneke, chairperson of the Wits Council Isaac Shongwe, director-general in the presidency, Phindile Baleni, and other dignitaries.
Prof Vilakazi also called on people to not be demotivated and held back by lack of higher education funding and sustainability, the changing world of work and the digital era we are currently living in.
“These challenges should not hold us back. Rather, they should drive us to aspire for a better future and spur us to new heights. Moonshots, combined with perseverance, will open up new worlds of possibility. It is time for Wits’ moonshot moment. It is time for perseverance,” he added.
The Chairperson of the Wits Council, Mr Isaac Shongwe, described Vilakazi as the epitome of a world-class scholar, globally recognised for his scientific work, and for his contribution towards developing higher education in Africa.
“He is a truly talented individual and an inspiring exemplar for all Africans. He is a symbol of hope for our students and an inspiration to our young scholars. He will lead Wits to its centennial next year, put forward a new vision for the institution, reinvigorate the African academy, and in so doing chart a way forward that will impact on our collective futures. I am inspired by his passion for progress and I look forward to working with Professor Vilakazi as he catapults Wits into its next century,” concluded Shongwe.
