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The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, in Bloemfontein has appointed another astute figure with a rich legacy in education, Dr. Thabane Vincent Maphai (72), as chancellor, becoming the fourth in the last 20 years for the institution. Boasting numerous feathers on his cap, he was officially inaugurated on Friday, 12 April, at a ceremony in the Boet Troskie Hall on the Bloemfontein campus.
Maphai boasts a blend of experience acquired from a fruitful spell working in both the private and public sector. His legacy is pinned on three pillars: education, work ethic and humanity.
Maphai holds a PhD degree obtained from the University of Natal, now the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), a master’s degree from the University of Leuven in Belgium, and an honours degree in international politics from the University of South Africa (Unisa) and advanced management programme from Harvard University. His service in the academic environment spans over two decades, serving in councils of various universities in South Africa and as an academic professor domestically and abroad. Maphai served as the chairman of the Presidential Review Commission, a body set up by late president Nelson Mandela to investigate government restructuring and service delivery. His term in the position extended through tenure of former president, Thabo Mbeki.
Maphai has replaced an equally respected intellectual, Judge Mahube Molemela, currently the president of the Supreme Court of Appeal. Her tenure as CUT chancellor was from June 20 2016 until 2019. Her tenure was extended as part the varsity’s council search for a suitable candidate, which culminated with Maphai as the successor.
The role of a chancellor is to be a steward, an ambassador, and ceremonial head of the university.
Prof. Pamela Dube, vice-chancellor and principal of the CUT, said Maphai’s appointment resonates with the varsity’s 2030 vision, shaping the future through innovation as a leading African university of technology and ties with 20-year milestone celebration.
“In Dr Maphai we have found a sage from whom we can seek counsel. We are at the stage where we need to forge partnerships with industries to do skill transfers and provide opportunities for our students to gain workplace experience. It is quite comforting to know that in Dr Maphai we have an ambassador to point us in the right direction for these meaningful partnerships,” said Dube.
Maphai is held in high regard as an embodiment of education.
“This is a privilege to be appointed as chancellor. Deep in my heart I am an educator, and education drive me. There is something fulfilling about seeing a student written off, then slowly rising out of the ashes to become an expert,” said Maphai. Other predecessors are Mosiuoa Patrick “Terror” Lekota (1997 to 2009) and Dr Boet Troskie (2010 to 2015).
