The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane has congratulated former International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, on her appointment by the University of Pretoria (UP) as an Honorary Professor in the Faculty of Education.
Dr Nkabane expressed confidence in Dr Pandor, adding that the institution made an excellent and befitting appointment.
“Dr. Pandor’s knowledge and passion for transformation will undoubtedly enrich the university and the broader higher education community.
Her academic achievements, including her doctoral research on transformation in the South African higher education context, reflect her deep commitment to shaping a progressive and inclusive sector,” said Dr Nkabane.
According to a statement by the institution, Dr Pandor joins UP’s Centre for the Advancement of Sustainable Higher Education Futures, where she’ll contribute to research and staff development without remuneration.
Dr Nkabane further highlighted that Dr Pandor’s role and experience is just what the sector needs.
“This remarkable achievement is a fitting recognition of Dr. Pandor’s extensive contributions to the South African higher education sector, having served admirably as the Minister of Education, Minister of Science and Technology, Minister of Higher Education and Training, and more recently, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
She has contributed significantly to reconfiguring the South African higher education landscape in the post-apartheid era by ensuring that the restructuring of the higher education sector serves South Africans irrespective of race, gender, and other forms of exclusion,” explained the minister.
Dr Pandor’s UP appointment comes after her decision to resign and not be part of the 7th administration.
She remains one of the most celebrated and respected figures, especially for human rights advocacy and for the active role she played in efforts for a cease-fire in Palestine and for Gaza to be freed from Israeli military bombardment.
Meanwhile Dr Nkabane continued to describe Dr Pandor as an inspiration to all.
“It is an honour to stand on the shoulders of giants like Dr. Pandor, whose mentorship and guidance continue to inspire me.
I consider her a mentor, mother, and a constant source of wisdom as we navigate the challenges facing our higher education system.
Her contribution to the sector is invaluable, and I wish her every success in this exciting new chapter,” remarked Dr Nkabane.
