THE Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) is preparing to officially inaugurate its new chancellor.
Dr Gloria Tomatoe Serobe was duly chosen as TUT's chancellor on Saturday, 30 October 2023.
She will be installed on Thursday, 14 March 2024 on the Pretoria campus.
As a chancellor, Dr Serobe will be the university's administrative head and, in this position, she will grant all degrees, diplomas, and certificates in the name of the institution.
The university’s spokeswoman, Phaphama Tshisikawe, said Seroba joins the university at a time when the institution is celebrating its 20th anniversary, an opportunity to reflect and move forward in the path from excellent to outstanding.
"We're excited to continue expanding the university under her chancellorship," she said.
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Tshisikawe explained that Seroba is reached out to them at a time when the university is redefining and recalibrating its connection with industry, as well as establishing itself as a bridge between academics and the workplace.
"Dr. Serobe, a highly accomplished business leader and a formidable community builder, is following in the footsteps of successful leaders such as the late Adelaide Tambo, Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, and Dr. Gwen Malegwale Ramokgopa," she said.
Tshisikawe said the university is laying out the red carpet for the daughter of the soil of Cape Town who was born and raised in the historic Gugulethu township and is the co-founder of Women Investment Portfolio Holdings (WIPHOLD) and CEO of WipCapital.
Dr Serobe said she sees this position as an additional opportunity to serve her nation and promote the empowerment movement, which has long been her personal passion.
When asked how one may manage both a home and a career, Dr Serobe said: "Build a village, respect the village you are given, and wish to stand with you."
She stressed the importance of community support in balancing home and career, echoing the sentiment in her book, An Ode to My Mother-in-Law.
"I'll bring all the university qualifications to this nominal role, which is not an operational one. It's a privilege for me to serve," said Dr Serobe.
