Renowned academic Prof Jan Crafford, who was recently appointed deputy vice-chancellor: academic of Univen, said he regarded his appointment as an honour and he felt greatly humbled.
"It is an honour to be offered the position and I look forward to the exciting challenge of this new role. I am committed to driving the academic agenda of the university during the period of my employment," he said.
Crafford's appointment follows on the heels of yet another major appointment, the university's registrar, Prof Edward Nesamvuni .
Crafford is an academic of note, with service spanning almost 30 years. He takes over the position left by Prof Xikombiso Mbhenyane, who left the university at the end of last year. He has been an associate professor in zoology and dean of the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences at the same university.
Univen principal, Prof Peter Mbati, said they were thrilled to welcome Crafford to the university's executive management team. "Considering the wealth of experience that Prof Crafford brings with him, I have no doubt that he will drive the university's academic agenda to the next level."
Mbati also called on members of the university community and other stakeholders to give Crafford the support he requires in order for him to succeed.