We always expected the first months of implementing the new structure to be tough. Where we already have permanent appointments the situation may be easier, but in some instances, where appointments have yet to be made, uncertainty still prevails.

 

Rest assured that we are working urgently on filling all positions, as demonstrated through our recent advertisement in the weekend papers.

 

Meanwhile two deputy vice-chancellors have been appointed, namely Prof Nancy (Refilwe) Phaswana-Mafuya for research and innovation, and Prof Robert Balfour for teaching and learning. We welcome them to the team of senior leaders.

 

Our objective is to appoint the right people to drive our approved strategy forward and not merely fill positions.

 

I have great empathy for those of you who are affected by uncertainty, but have no doubt that this will be resolved soon. Our new strategy and the structure which enables it, are cornerstones of a new, positive era for the NWU. Without these in place, we would have had reason to be worried, but this is not the case.

 

Let’s keep our focus in these difficult times, knowing that it was always likely to be a challenging period.  Express your views candidly at the fora created by your managers. Don’t hold back. Remember that the big picture is one of hope for the future and change for the better.

 

The NWU’s dream is to be an internationally recognised university in Africa, distinguished for engaged scholarship and social responsiveness. We can be this university, building on the excellent work done over many decades.

 

In conclusion, I quote Prof Linda du Plessis, our new deputy vice-chancellor responsible for planning and for the Vaal Triangle Campus. She recently said: “I am a firm believer that a shared dream motivates individuals to come together in an extraordinary way to achieve exceptional results.”

 

This is indeed also my view. Let this sentiment inspire us. Our new direction is a wellspring of hope. The best is yet to come.