?As the saying goes, change is the only constant. Nowhere is this more evident than in the dynamic landscape of global higher education. The sector continues to evolve, breaking new ground and reshaping traditional boundaries. Stellenbosch 肆客足球 (SU) is no exception.
In February 2025, I was appointed Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Strategy, Global, and Corporate Affairs. I follow in the footsteps of Prof Hester Klopper, whose leadership has been instrumental in advancing SU's internationalisation strategy over the past years. Through this platform, Prof Klopper regularly shared insights and progress updates, and I am pleased to now step into this role and continue the conversation with you, our valued partners in international education.
1 April 2025 marked another important leadership milestone as Prof Deresh Ramjugernath commenced his tenure as SU's 13th Rector and Vice-Chancellor. His appointment signals the beginning of a new chapter for SU, one where internationalisation remains a cornerstone of our institutional strategy. As we refine and reimagine our global vision, I look forward to aligning our efforts further to strengthen SU's presence in the international arena.
Having served as Dean of the Faculty of Military Science since 2012, I appreciated the critical importance of cultivating a global outlook within the Higher Education Sector. For more than thirty years, SU has purposefully advanced a robust internationalisation agenda that strategically positions us as a leader in higher education on the African continent. While our roots remain firmly embedded in Africa, our collaborative reach spans continents from South America to Europe, and from the United States to Asia.
Partnerships are at the heart of our internationalisation efforts. They unlock rich opportunities for students and staff to engage in collaborative learning, research, innovation, and cultural exchange. We are proud to be active participants in global networks that connect leading academics and administrative experts, enabling us to learn from and contribute to the global academic community. In my new role, I am committed to deepening existing partnerships and cultivating new ones that align with our shared values and strategic goals. Together, we will continue to build bridges that transcend borders, foster mutual growth, and shape the future of higher education.
While the change in leadership often signals a period of transition, SU remains unwavering in its commitment to internationalisation. This moment provides an exciting opportunity to intensify our efforts and co-create a bold new vision for the decade ahead. Our international colleagues, collaborators, and friends are integral to this journey. We value your partnership deeply and look forward to strengthening these ties as we pursue our mission to be Africa's leading research-intensive university.
Warm regards,
Prof Samuel Tshehla, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Strategy, Global and Corporate Affairs
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