New era for Wits management as Professor Kupe’s switch to UP necessitates reshuffle of the senior executive team
WITS UNIVERSITY’s Senior Executive Management team has a different look this year with four significant changes at the top since January 1, 2019.
The restructuring follows the appointment of Professor Tawana Kupe as the vice chancellor and principal of the University of Pretoria (UP) in December 2018. Kupe is the former Wits deputy vice chancellor (DVC).
Professor Andrew Crouch has replaced Kupe as the DVC or vice principal for a period of three years. Crouch will also continue to hold his current portfolio as DVC: Academic.
The Dean of Humanities, Professor Ruksana Osman has been tasked with Kupe’s former portfolio as DVC: Advancement, Human Resources, Transformation, Legal Services and Occupational Health and Safety. While Osman is the acting DVC, she will be replaced as dean of faculty by former deputy dean of Humanities, Prof Garth Stevens.
Wits Head of Communications Shirona Patel has said that management will meet in February to discuss the restructuring of the Senior Executive Team. “Following this discussion, the recruitment processes for the relevant positions will begin, in line with the university’s rules, policies and procedures,” Patel said.
In another significant move, Rob Sharman, the director for Campus Housing and Residence Life retired after 30 years of service to the university. Sharman has been replaced by Kgomotso Legari.
Legari previously worked as the deputy director for Student Support in the Student Housing Department at UP.
Legari told Wits Vuvuzela that his goal is , “to encourage recognised private off-campus residences to be on par with us in supporting students in all aspects of their university and residence life”.
Dean of Students Jerome September has welcomed Legari’s appointment.
“He is ideally placed to help lead Campus Housing and Residence Life, and to ensure that we establish these as living learning centres that contribute to a rich university experience, and ensure academic success,” September said.
FEATURED IMAGE: Professor Andrew Crouch takes over from Kupe as the DVC or vice principal for a period of three years Photo: Provided
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