The process to find a new Rhodes University vice-chancellor to replace Dr Saleem Badat may have started but that does not mean it will be resolved quickly.
University registrar Dr Steve Fourie told the Daily Dispatch yesterday that although a new appointment could take up to the end of the year to be decided, he was confident it would be completed sooner. "How long it will take is not easy to answer but we expect a smooth and easy process."
While Badat's resignation last month after eight years may have surprised many, Fourie said those close to the university's first black vice-chancellor knew it was inevitable. "Dr Badat's resignation was not a surprise to those who worked closely with him.
"He had already served out his first term as vice-chancellor and when he renewed the terms it was apparent he would move on this time." He said the term of vice-chancellor was normally seven years. Although Badat handed in his resignation last month he will stay on as vice-chancellor until June before taking a month's annual leave to facilitate his move to New York to take up a key position on August 1 with the prestigious Andrew W Mellon Foundation higher education programme.
Deputy vice-chancellor Dr Sizwe Mabizela will become acting vice-chancellor from July 1 until a replacement is appointed. — davidm@dispatch.co.za
By: David Macgregor
Article Source: DAILY DISPATCH