With student numbers increasing, the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) on Tuesday announced that it has appointed its first deputy vice-chancellors (DVC) to meet the demands of the growing institution.
The university, which marks a decade of existence in 2024, appointed its dean of agriculture and natural sciences professor Moses Mbewe to the position deputy vice-chancellor for postgraduate studies, engagement and planning.
Former executive director for strategic partnerships at the National Research Foundation (NRF) Dr Aldo Stroebel has been appointed DVC for research, innovation and internationalisation.
The pair began its duties on July 1, making them the first DVCs of one of South Africa’s newest universities. UMP was established in 2014, the same year that Sol Plaatje University in Northern Cape opened its doors.
Mbewe – who has a PhD in microbial genetics and molecular biology from the University of Cambridge in the UK – joined UMP in 2016.
Before joining UMP, Mbewe was with the University of Limpopo as the head of department of water and sanitation and acting director of the school of computer and mathematical sciences.
“Mbewe will provide strategic leadership on all aspects related to postgraduate studies, engagement, institutional planning and continuing education services,” said UMP spokesperson Tlangelani Ubisi.
Stroebel worked at the NRF for a decade before joining UMP.
From 2003 to 2013, Stroebel worked in various capacities at the University of Free State (UFS), including as senior lecturer and associate professor in the centre for sustainable agriculture.
He was UFS’ director for international academic and transformation projects in the office of the vice-chancellor and rector.
He holds a PhD in Sustainable Agriculture, which is a joint programme between the UFS and Cornell University in the US.
“Stroebel will be responsible for strategic leadership for all aspects related to research, innovation and partnerships, and library and information services and institutional centres and institutes,” said Ubisi.
UMP vice-chancellor professor Thoko Mayekiso said in a statement that over the years, the university has grown in stature and academic offerings.
“We now offer 65 programmes ranging from higher certificates to doctoral degrees and have more than 8 200 enrolled,” she said.
“We firmly believe that they will contribute positively to the academic project of the university and in our pursuit of being an African university leading in creating opportunities for sustainable development through innovation.”
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