I would like to convey my heartfelt congratulations to the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, on his appointment as Vice-Chancellor and Principal to our neighbouring university, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

Prof Maluleke will be leaving his position as Senior Research Fellow and Deputy Director at the Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship. At UP he was one of our leading media commentators and thought leaders, taking a stance on social and political issues, including the local government elections and the looting and unrest in July. He boldly shared his thoughts on the challenges in South Africa.

This thought leader has contributed to the political discourse of South Africa. Prof Maluleke is highly seasoned in the workings of the higher education sector and is an internationally acclaimed researcher who has contributed to the academic body of knowledge. Specialising in religion and politics, as well as black and African theologies, he has made his mark in this field.

Clearly respected in academic, political and social circles, I believe Prof Maluleke will take TUT to new heights at a time when universities are facing multiple challenges and to reposition for greater societal  impact.

I wish him well in his new position and look forward to collaborating with him in academic  partnerships.