Professor Liezl van Dyk has been as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic at Stellenbosch University.
Image: Supplied.
The Council of Stellenbosch University (SU) has announced the appointment of Professor Liezl van Dyk as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic, effective 1 July 2026. This significant decision follows a thorough and consultative recruitment process, demonstrating the university's commitment to academic excellence and inclusive governance.
Van Dyk's journey is grounded in her rich academic background and leadership experience. With over 27 years in higher education, she is a full professor, an NRF-rated researcher, and a professionally registered industrial engineer. She currently serves as Executive Dean of Engineering at North-West University, where she is at the forefront of academic governance and infrastructure development.
In her presentation to the university community, Van Dyk articulated a robust vision aimed at enhancing Stellenbosch University's academic framework. This vision seeks to advance institutional coherence, embed data-informed academic governance, and align planning across faculties to ensure sustainable academic impact. SU Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Deresh Ramjugernath highlighted the alignment of Van Dyk's integrated approach to academic planning as a decisive factor in the Council's decision. "She embodies a rare combination of strategic clarity and operational depth," he said.
On her appointment, Van Dyk expressed her gratitude for the opportunity: "SU is globally known for its excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. My aim is to enhance the University’s academic excellence and its reputation in learning and teaching through structured coherence and governance." Her passion for fostering an inclusive academic culture is evident as she commits to strengthening the sense of belonging among students.
Van Dyk’s portfolio promises to pivot around curriculum innovation and the integration of emerging technologies in education. She has emphasised the necessity of enhancing teaching practices through hybrid education models and responsible AI-enabled academic innovation. Her vision prioritises curriculum renewal that reflects African roots while maintaining global relevance, aiming to establish a strong, interconnected learning environment.
Ramjugernath underlined the importance of balancing innovation with academic integrity, especially as universities face the challenges of digital acceleration and evolving educational models. "Prof Van Dyk's skills in curriculum renewal and AI-enabled learning will bolster our capacity to embrace these changes while ensuring our academic quality remains uncompromised," he noted.
Central to Van Dyk’s vision is the enhancement of student progression and success, particularly through structured monitoring and the advancement of diverse pathways to education. Her extensive experience highlights the need for holistic strategies that champion demographic diversification and integrate postgraduate education into broader academic frameworks. Building solid partnerships with universities, professional bodies, and industries further reinforces her commitment to linking academic excellence with employability and societal impact.
As she steps into this pivotal role, Van Dyk's dual focus on academic innovation and student-centric approaches aligns seamlessly with the University’s Vision 2040 strategy, promising an exciting evolution for Stellenbosch University.