Prof. Wim de Villiers

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In this special episode, Sibu Ndudula and Shaun Daniels sits down with Prof. Wim de Villiers, the 12th Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, as he reflects on his remarkable ten-year tenure before stepping down at the end of the month.

Born and raised in Stellenbosch, Prof. De Villiers has had a lifelong connection to the university—first as a student, then as a global academic and medical leader, and finally returning to lead his alma mater. In this conversation, he opens up about the highs and lows of his leadership, including navigating major transformation movements like #FeesMustFall, the university’s evolving language policy, and initiatives in gender equality, campus safety, and visual redress.

During the interview, they also discuss the challenges of leadership, the lessons he’s learned, and what he envisions for the future of Stellenbosch University. Plus, on a lighter note, they find out his go-to song, his favourite book recommendations, and what three things he’d write down for the new Rector on their first day in office.

Tune in for a reflective and insightful conversation about transformation, leadership, and the future of one of South Africa’s top universities.
19 Mar 2025 English South Africa News · Society & Culture

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