In the age of technological evolution and with much needed support for existing and upcoming young entrepreneurs-Wits’ new Vice-Chancellor Zeblon Vilakazi, looks to change the university’s vision to close these gaps.
Vilakazi’s vision for Wits is to turn it into a socially, creative and technically innovative incubation space for technology and entrepreneurship.
With the 4IR, it has become important to harness technology, introducing it within spaces which encourage transformation. Rethinking education and harnessing technology and entrepreneurship can guarantee transformation of higher Education institutions.
In the next two years Vilkazi sees a Wits where the curriculum is in line with the country’s needs and one which encourages transformation and continuous development within the education system.
A Wits where senior positions are a reflection of equality and of good example.
“You just set the parameters and let the ideas flourish. So I think that is my goal. That’s my dream of this university”,he said.
ABOUT WITS UNIVERSITY NEW VICE-CHANCELLOR
Vilakazi joined Wits in 2014 as deputy vice-chancellor for research and postgraduate affairs, and in April was appointed vice-principal.He also chairs South Africa’s National Quantum Computing Working Committee which seeks to develop a Framework for Quantum Computing and Quantum Technology-driven research and innovation in South Africa.
Vilakazi will be the 15th vice-chancellor and principal of the university and will take over from Prof Adam Habib, who will leave at the end of the year to lead the School of Oriental and African Studies in London
“It is an honour to have been appointed to this prestigious position,” said Vilakazi. “I am committed to working with my esteemed colleagues, fellow academics and smart, savvy students to create new knowledge, and to develop the high-level skills required to move SA and our economy forward. We also need to continue to develop the originators, innovators and critical thinkers who can help us solve the problems of the 21st century.”
