Tinyiko Maluleke, a Gauteng professor with ties to the Vhembe region, has been appointed the new vice-chancellor and principal of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Maluleke, who grew up between Meadowlands in Soweto, Valdezia, Bungeni, Nkowankowa and Tzaneen, joins the TUT with effect from 1 February 2022 from the University of Pretoria, where he currently holds the position of senior research fellow and deputy director at the Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship.
He holds a doctoral degree from the University of South Africa and regularly appears in the national media. He also has strong networks in government and major research and funding organisations.
"I am thrilled to be taking on this exciting role at a crucial time for the university," said Maluleke. "Although the backdrop for universities is challenging, the Tshwane University of Technology is very well positioned to take up the role of one of the top universities in the world."
He is a prominent and internationally recognised researcher in his field, specialising in religion and politics, as well as black and African theologies.
Tilson Manyoni, the chairperson of the council at TUT, lauded Prof Maluleke and wished him well in his new position within the university. "I am delighted to congratulate Professor Maluleke on his appointment," Manyoni said. "This was a rigorous and highly competitive selection process, and the standard was exceptionally high. Professor Maluleke has an impressive track record of leadership in higher education. He brings a combination of clear strategic vision, a collegiate leadership style, intellectual credibility, a depth and breadth of academic understanding, and genuine global influence to TUT."