Rhodes University is proud to announce the unanimous election of Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga as the new Chancellor of the University with effect from 10 October this year.
Justice Madlanga is a distinguished jurist who recently retired after serving with distinction on the Constitutional Court of South Africa for more than a decade. His illustrious career has been marked by a profound dedication to constitutional democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He now chairs the Madlanga Commission, a landmark inquiry into corruption, criminality, and political interference in South Africa’s justice system.
The Rhodes University Council’s unanimous decision recognises not only his legal expertise and integrity but also his enduring commitment to education and public service. Justice Madlanga is an alumnus of Rhodes University, where he completed his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree before furthering his studies internationally.
Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, described the appointment as "a homecoming to the institution from where he graduated in 1986 and where he received an honorary Doctor of Laws in 2023".
“Justice Madlanga embodies the values and ideals that Rhodes University stands for. His life and career demonstrate the transformative power of education and the pursuit of justice. We are honoured to have him serve as our Chancellor and look forward to his guidance as we continue to shape the future of this institution,” Professor Mabizela said.
Born in KwaBhaca (formerly Mount Frere) in 1962, Justice Madlanga’s journey from rural Eastern Cape to the country’s highest court and now back to Rhodes University is testament to the transformative power of education.
Justice Madlanga accepted his appointment by saying, “My time as Chancellor will be guided by the same values that I have strived to uphold throughout my judicial career. A commitment to excellence without elitism, collegiality that builds consensus, diversity that truly includes, and courage that challenges unjust systems.”
As Chancellor, Justice Madlanga will serve as the ceremonial head of Rhodes University, presiding over graduation ceremonies and acting as an ambassador for the University’s vision of producing graduates who are critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and engaged citizens.
Chair of Rhodes University Council, Judge Gerald Bloem, remarked: "I am delighted that Rhodes University has elected Justice Madlanga as its next Chancellor. I have no doubt that Justice Madlanga, an exceptional jurist, whose seminal judgments are rooted in the Constitution, will serve Rhodes University with the same enthusiasm with which he served the country through those judgments. I wish him well as he embarks on his new journey."