UCT appoints interim VC following Phakeng departure

The university’s spokesperson Elijah Moholola confirmed the appointment of Emeritus Professor Daya Reddy as interim vice-chancellor, effective from Tuesday.

Reddy's appointment comes after former vice-chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng agreed to an early retirement deal last month.

Phakeng's early retirement came after UCT dropped part of an independent investigation into the governance crisis at the university.

“The decision to appoint Reddy was made at a special council meeting last week following consultation with Senate, and after seeking the advice of the Institutional Forum,” says Moholola.

Reddy has served as an acting deputy vice-chancellor for three terms.

“Professor Reddy has spent almost his entire academic career at UCT at his retirement in 2020 he held a South African research chair in computational mechanics. He enjoys considerable recognition nationally and internationally as a researcher and he has received multiple awards in recognition of his scholarly work,” said Moholola.

“Furthermore, he served three terms on council as a member elected by the senate. Over and above his duties at UCT he also has extensive experience in other governments and leadership structures nationally and internationally.”

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