Lesetja Kganyago elected new Stellenbosch University Chancellor

Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), has been unanimously elected as the new Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU), effective 24 January 2025. He succeeds Justice Edwin Cameron, whose term concluded in December 2024.

As the titular head of the University, the Chancellor plays a ceremonial role, symbolizing the institution’s vision and values.

The election was conducted by an electoral college composed of members of the SU Council and the Executive Committee of the Senate, in accordance with the SU Statute. Governor Kganyago will now serve as SU’s 16th Chancellor.

A distinguished leader in public policy, Governor Kganyago was awarded an honorary Doctor of Commerce (DCom) honoris causa by SU in 2018, recognizing his contributions to economic development. He also received an honorary Doctorate of Commerce from Nelson Mandela University in 2020.

His academic credentials include a Master of Science degree in Development Economics from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at London University and a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accounting and Economics from the University of South Africa.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Governor Kganyago remarked:

“I am honored to accept the position of Chancellor at an institution deeply committed to the growth and development of our country and continent. Education is the foundation of progress, and I look forward to contributing to the inspiration and empowerment of the next generation.”

The Chancellor serves a five-year term and is eligible for re-election to one additional consecutive term.