Prof van Staden commended Prof Phakeng as an outstanding mathematics educator who, in 2002, became the first black female South African to obtain a PhD in Mathematics Education. 

“It is especially heart-warming that, during International Women’s month, a woman of her stature and impeccable reputation was appointed to this high-profile position,” he continued. 

Prof Phakeng served as Vice-Principal of research and innovation at the University of South Africa before joining UCT in July 2016 to become Deputy Vice-Chancellor of research and internationalisation in January 2017.

Prof Phakeng is widely respected as a formidable‚ practical and forward-thinking person.  She is recognised throughout the higher education sector for her strong views on transformation, as well as her outstanding academic and strategic leadership.  These qualities will greatly assist her in addressing the current sectoral challenges, as well as in executing her responsibilities in the new position effective from 1 July 2018.  

Prof van Staden concluded, “TUT would like to wish Prof Phakeng and the UCT community well on their journey to shape Prof Pakeng’s vision of a uniquely African university, embedded in academic excellence, research and innovation. 

“We also support them in their drive to secure further transformation that will ‘ensure that UCT is inclusive, engaged and unapologetically African’,” as Prof Phakeng indicated in a statement after the announcement of her appointment.”