The Council of the University of Pretoria (UP) has approved the appointment of Professor Francis Petersen as Vice-Chancellor and Principal.

Prof Petersen who is the vice-chancellor of the University of the Free State, will begin his tenure on October 1 at UP.

University of Pretoria’s Council chairperson Kuseni Dlamini, said Petersen brings a distinguished record of academic leadership and a wealth of experience in higher education to his new role.

“With a diverse background spanning engineering, finance, and academic management, he is poised to lead the University of Pretoria into a new era of innovation and excellence,” Dlamini said.

Petersen’s educational journey is marked by notable achievements, including a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) and a Master of Engineering (Metallurgical Engineering) from the University of Stellenbosch, as well as a PhD in Engineering.

His academic prowess is complemented by a short course in Financial Skills for Executive Management from IIR Training.

Petersen has held various academic positions, including roles at the University of Stellenbosch, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Cape Town, and University of the Free State.

“His leadership roles have ranged from Head of Department to Dean and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, showcasing his extensive experience in academic management at departmental, faculty, and institutional levels.”

Dlamini said Petersen’s tenure as Vice-Chancellor and Principal at the University of the Free State underscores his commitment to academic excellence, institutional advancement, and community engagement.

He has played a pivotal role in steering the university towards sustainable growth and fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation.

“It is with great enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome to Prof Petersen as the new Vice-Chancellor and Principal of our institution,” said Dlamini.

“Prof Petersen’s exemplary leadership, extensive academic achievements, and commitment to excellence uniquely position him to guide our university into a new era of innovation and growth.”

He said the council is confident that under his stewardship, UP will continue to uphold the tradition of academic distinction while forging new paths in research, teaching, and community engagement.

“We look forward to working closely with Prof Petersen to achieve our shared vision for the future.”

Commenting on his appointment, Petersen stated: “I am deeply honoured to join the University of Pretoria as its new Vice-Chancellor and Principal. I am committed to advancing the university’s mission of academic excellence, research innovation, and societal impact. I look forward to working closely with the university community to realise our shared vision for the future.”

UFS Council Chairperson David Noko said: “Prof Petersen’s tenure at the University of Free State was characterised by remarkable leadership, and the council has great appreciation for the work he has done as well as for the university’s achievements under his leadership.

“Excellence, inclusivity, innovation, academic freedom, a particular focus and emphasis on critical enquiry, social responsiveness, and integrity were the value characteristics through which Prof Petersen led as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UFS,” Noko said.

“He led the university through challenging and complex times – not only for the institution but also for the higher education sector – with a primary focus on and commitment to stakeholder engagement. He brought stability to the university and placed great emphasis on the institution’s visibility and its impact on society.

“On behalf of the council and the entire university community, I thank and commend Prof Petersen for his dedicated leadership and wish him all the best in his new role as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria,” he concluded.

Also Read: University of Pretoria gets a new Vice-Chancellor

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