The Nelson Mandela Foundation has congratulated former Cabinet minister Dr Naledi Pandor, chairperson of the foundation’s board, on her appointment as chancellor of Nelson Mandela University, effective April 1, 2026.

In a short statement, the Foundation described Pandor as “a distinguished activist, academic and public servant” whose lifelong commitment to education has consistently demonstrated its power to transform lives, expand freedom and build more just societies.

“Her leadership reflects a deep belief in education not only as access to knowledge, but as a pathway to dignity, agency and social justice,” the foundation said.

The appointment was formally announced on January 1, 2026 by Nelson Mandela University (NMU) chairperson Judge Nambitha Dambuza on behalf of the university council and community.

Dambuza said Pandor’s four-year term is in accordance with the university statute, which gives effect to the Higher Education Act of 1997, as amended.

”She is a distinguished activist, academic, former Cabinet minister and internationalist whose lifelong commitment to education, social justice and public service aligns deeply with the values and mission of the university,” Judge Dambuza said.

“Her appointment reflects the council’s confidence in her ability to provide principled leadership and to serve as an inspiring ambassador for the institution.”

Judge Dambuza extended council’s congratulations to Pandor and expressed optimism about her contribution to advancing the university’s vision and standing, both locally and globally.

Pandor will succeed the current chancellor, Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, whose term ends on March 31, 2026.

Judge Dambuza also expressed council’s appreciation to Fraser-Moleketi, who served two terms as chancellor, for her “dedication, hard work and commitment to advancing Nelson Mandela University, its values and ethos”.

Pandor holds a PhD in education from the University of Pretoria, awarded in 2019, and honorary doctorates from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Stellenbosch University, the University of Lisbon in Portugal, and University College Dublin in Ireland.

Her academic qualifications include a master’s degree in education from the University of London (1978–79), a master’s degree in general linguistics from Stellenbosch University (1997), and a bachelor’s degree and certificate for continuing education from the University of Botswana and Swaziland (1973–77). 

She also holds a diploma in education from the University of London (1977–78), a diploma in higher education administration and leadership from the Bryn Mawr Summer Programme (1992), and a diploma in leadership in development from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University (1997).

Pandor served as minister of international relations and cooperation from May 2019 until June 2024. 

She previously held several Cabinet posts, including minister of higher education and training (2018–2019), minister of science and technology (2014–2018 and 2009–2012), minister of home affairs (2012–2014), and minister of education (2004–2009).

IOL News

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