Sol Plaatje University (SPU), established in 2013 and started its academic programs in 2014, plays a significant role in the Northern Cape and nationally. The university's council, governed by the Higher Education Act of 1997 and the SPU Institutional Statute, has fiduciary responsibility and duty of governance and policy-making. The council determines the university's strategic direction.
The University Council is now seeking nominations for external members to serve a four-year term. Organisations, interest groups, and individuals are invited to nominate suitable candidates, preferably from the Northern Cape. To be eligible, nominees must have a tertiary qualification and high-level expertise in one or more fields applicable to university councils, such as community development, infrastructure development, ICT, human resources, agriculture, finance, or strategy development.
Council members are not employees of the university and do not receive salaries. Nominees should have a demonstrable understanding of the higher education sector. The university encourages nominations of females and persons with disabilities. No employees or students of SPU, other universities, or local, provincial, or national political office bearers are eligible for appointment.
To nominate a candidate, a completed nomination form, available on SPU's website, must be submitted in writing, accompanied by the nominee's curriculum vitae and acceptance of the nomination. A motivation on how the nominee would contribute to the role of the SPU Council is also required. Nominations should be sent to the University Registrar at [email protected] by October 16, 2026.
The SPU Council's responsibilities include governance and oversight in the higher education sector. Members are expected to provide expertise and guidance to ensure the university's continued growth and success. The university values the contributions of its council members in shaping its strategic direction.
If no notification of appointment is received within six months of the closing date, nominees should assume their nomination was unsuccessful. The university appreciates the time and effort taken by individuals and organisations to nominate suitable candidates for the SPU Council.
Sol Plaatje University is committed to transformation and growth, and the appointment of new council members is an important step in this process. The university looks forward to receiving nominations from qualified individuals who can contribute to its continued success.
Key points
- Sol Plaatje University seeks nominations for external council members to serve a four-year term, preferably from the Northern Cape.
- Nominees must have a tertiary qualification and high-level expertise in one or more fields applicable to university councils.
- Nominations must be submitted by October 16, 2026, to be considered for appointment to the SPU Council.
