The University of Pretoria Council has appointed Professor Tawana Kupe as the new Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University. This follows the resignation of Professor Cheryl de la Rey, who has taken up the position of Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. In his statement of intent, Professor Kupe said, "Universities have a responsibility to develop educated, well informed and professionally skilled people who can address local and global challenges and contribute towards creating successful and thriving societies".

"To be able to play these critically important roles, universities must enjoy academic freedom and institutional autonomy, allow for freedom of inquiry and be transparent, accountable and ethical in their practices in all respects". Professor Kupe recently visited the Faculty of Education. Here he is seen with Professor Chika Sehoole, Dean of the Faculty of Education.