Leveraging leadership to drive research excellence at Univen

The University of Venda (Univen) recently published an interview with Professor Fulufhelo Netswera, who was appointed as the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Postgraduate Studies (DVC-R&PS) two months prior by the University Council. During the discussion, Professor Netswera took the opportunity to reflect deeply on his educational background, his professional journey, and his leadership roles, setting out a clear vision for the future of research excellence and postgraduate support at the institution.

Key details of the story

• Person appointed: Professor Fulufhelo Netswera.
• New role: Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Postgraduate Studies (DVC-R&PS).
• Institution: University of Venda (Univen).
• Timeline: The interview took place two months after his appointment was officially announced by the University Council.
• Interviewer: Dr. Takalani Dzaga.
• Interviewer’s role: Director Marketing, Branding and Communication at Univen.
• Core themes of the interview: Professor Netswera discussed his personal background, his extensive academic career path, his previous leadership experiences, and his strategic vision for enhancing Univen’s research profile and supporting postgraduate students.
• Source of the story: University of Venda.

A simple summary of Professor Netswera’s journey and vision

Following the formal announcement of his appointment by the University Council, Professor Fulufhelo Netswera sat down for a conversation to introduce himself and his plans to the wider University of Venda community. This discussion, facilitated by Dr. Takalani Dzaga, served as an important platform for the new DVC-R&PS to provide context on his professional history and the experiences that have prepared him for this demanding leadership role. Professor Netswera is expected to spearhead Univen’s efforts to increase the quality and quantity of its research output, while also focusing on creating a supportive environment for postgraduate students to succeed.

He used this opportunity to outline a strategic direction focused on making Univen a leading research university. His vision appears centred on ensuring that the university’s research contributes meaningfully to solving real-world problems and advancing societal knowledge. For those who wish to read the full details of this extensive interview and learn more about his plans, they can find the complete discussion here.

Questions a member of the community might ask

• What exactly does the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for research and postgraduate studies do?
  The DVC-R&PS is responsible for overseeing and strategically guiding all research activities, ethics, innovation, and intellectual property development within the university, as well as managing and improving the programmes and support structures for master’s and doctoral students.
• What is Professor Netswera’s immediate priority for Univen?
  While the full vision is comprehensive, his immediate focus will likely be on leveraging his leadership experience to boost Univen’s overall research profile and ensure greater success rates and timely completion for postgraduate students.
• Why did the University wait two months to publish this reflection?
  Often, there is a delay between a Council appointment announcement and the individual formally starting the role or conducting a detailed public interview. This time allows the new DVC to settle into the position and prepare a cohesive statement about their goals.
• Does this mean Univen will change what kind of research they focus on?
  The appointment of a new DVC usually leads to refined research priorities. Professor Netswera will likely review current strengths and potentially guide resources toward high-impact research areas that align with national needs and global challenges.
• Who appoints a DVC at a university like Univen?
  The Deputy Vice-Chancellor is appointed by the University Council, following a comprehensive recruitment process that involves selection committees and recommendations from the Vice-Chancellor.
• Where can I find similar news about university developments in the local area?
  For more updates and related news stories concerning educational and civic developments in the surrounding area, you can visit Thohoyandou News.