It has been over six months since Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Cheryl de la Rey announced her move to the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. Since then, she has been visiting all UP campuses, saying her goodbyes to colleagues and friends, and thanking them for their support. Last week, a number of local pastors paid Prof De la Rey a visit to wish her good luck in her new endeavour. It was a low-key affair, with tea, cake and intimate conversation.  

“Local churches have been supporting the University for many years, and we have also supported Prof de la Rey during the #FeesMustFall and #OutsourcingMustFall protests. Also, these churches have been facilitating the transformation process between white and black churches. We are proud of Prof de la Rey and wish her well in her next journey with Canterbury University,” said Pastor Immanuel Hanoman of Elim Full Gospel Church. He was speaking during the farewell party at UP’s administration building on Hatfield Campus.

 “I hope Professor Tawana Kupe will continue with our community engagements because these interactions are vital for us as an anchor institution in the community, and they are part of the academic mission,” said Prof de la Rey, referring to her recently announced successor, and to UP’s strategic initiative, Hatfield Campus Village. As part of this project the University works with – among others –faith-based organisations, in order to create an enabling environment for students and staff. The University is involved in a number of social upliftment projects all aimed at promoting an inclusive village community. The church community, along with local businesses and police stations, are aiming to boost economic stability, and grow the local economy to ensure sustainability.