UKZN welcomes new vice-chancellor
Dr Albert van Jaarsveld officially took over leadership of UKZN today, 2 February.
THE new vice-chancellor and principal of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Albert van Jaarsveld, started his term at the institution today, 2 February.
Dr van Jaarsveld, who has served as the National Research Foundation’s CEO for the last five years, brings with him a wealth of expertise and fresh views, which the university management feels will help take UKZN into the future.
Dr van Jaarsveld’s experience in the driving seat of the NRF not only provided him with the functional knowledge of research systems at a macro level but also with the necessary experience to function at the highest level. His career in research, teaching and leadership include academic and management positions at the Universities of Pretoria and Stellenbosch, as dean of science, adjunct professor of environmental studies programme at Dartmouth College, USA, vice president and more recently, president and CEO of the NRF.
He obtained his PhD in Zoology from the University of Pretoria, pursued post-doctoral studies and research in conservation biology and global security in Australia and the UK respectively and completed executive management training at Harvard University. He was appointed full professor at both the Universities of Pretoria and Stellenbosch and has published in excess of 100 primary research papers, including highly cited works in science and nature. He is also the recipient of numerous professional awards.
“The university community welcomes Dr van Jaarsveld to UKZN and looks forward to his leadership and guidance,” said Lesiba Seshoka, executive director of the Corporate Relations Division at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Dr van Jaarsveld succeeds the founding vice-chancellor of UKZN, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba, whose term of office officially ended on 31 January.
Professor Makgoba however, will remain at the university for a transitional period of three months, which ends in April 2015.
The transition period is critical as it not only provides an opportunity for the efficient transfer of executive leadership and responsibilities, but also affords the new vice-chancellor time to familiarise himself with the institution and its numerous stakeholders.
Dr van Jaarsveld's Installation Ceremony will be on 7 March 2015.
