New Tuks vice chancellor assumes his role, responsibilities

Professor Francis Petersen finally assumed the role of Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria (UP) on Tuesday.

The new chancellor brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to advancing academic excellence, research and community engagement.

Petersen’s educational journey is marked by notable achievements, including a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) and a Master of Engineering (Metallurgical Engineering) from the University of Stellenbosch, as well as a PhD in Engineering.

His academic prowess is complemented by a short course in Financial Skills for Executive Management from IIR Training.

Petersen has held various academic positions, including roles at the University of Stellenbosch, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Cape Town, and University of the Free State (UFS).

The Council of the University of Pretoria earlier this year approved the appointment.

UP Council chairperson Kuseni Dlamini, said Petersen brings a distinguished record of academic leadership and a wealth of experience in higher education to his new role.

“With a diverse background spanning engineering, finance, and academic management, he is poised to lead the University of Pretoria into a new era of innovation and excellence,” Dlamini said.

Tuks spokesperson Sashlin Girraj said Petersen is a dynamic leader with an outstanding academic excellence and institutional advancement record.

“With extensive experience in both higher education and industry, he is well-positioned to guide UP into an exciting new era of innovation and growth.”

His impressive academic background and qualifications equip him to drive UP’s strategic vision forward.

Girraj said Petersen’s leadership journey includes key roles at leading universities and influential positions in industry, highlighting his deep commitment to academic and professional development.

“During his tenure as Vice-Chancellor at the University of the Free State, Professor Petersen championed inclusivity, research, and community engagement, laying the foundation for sustainable progress.”

Girraj said UP would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Professor Themba Mosia, who has provided exemplary leadership as Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal over the past year.

“As he returns to his role as Vice-Principal: Student Life, we are grateful for his dedication and visionary leadership during this transition period.”

He added that the university welcomes Petersen to the UP community and looks forward to working together to uphold the tradition of academic excellence while exploring new opportunities in research, teaching, and community service.

UFS Council chairman David Noko said Petersen’s tenure was characterised by remarkable leadership.

“The Council has great appreciation for the work he has done as well as for the university’s achievements under his leadership. Excellence, inclusivity, innovation, academic freedom, a particular focus and emphasis on critical enquiry, social responsiveness, and integrity were the value characteristics through which Prof Petersen led as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UFS.”

Noko said Petersen led the university through challenging and complex times – not only for the institution but also for the higher education sector – with a primary focus on and commitment to stakeholder engagement. He brought stability to the university and placed great emphasis on the institution’s visibility and its impact on society.

“On behalf of the Council and the entire university community, I thank and commend Prof Petersen for his dedicated leadership and wish him all the best in his new role,” said Noko.

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram