Varsity names strong team

HIGH-PROFILE officials tasked to turn around the fortunes of embattled Walter Sisulu University (WSU) were announced yesterday.

The council has a mix of faces with impeccable business acumen and political affiliations who now have to embark on a process of revitalising the dented and battered image of the university.

WSU was bankrupt before Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande intervened in 2011 following pleas from stakeholders.

Among those featured in the new council are five ministerial appointees: former administrator Professor Lourens van Staden, Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCB) chief executive Les Holbrook, East London Industrial Development Zone chief executive Simphiwe Khondlo, High Court and Competition Appeal Court Judge Nambitha Dambuza, and former University of Transkei council chair and unionist Ndumiso Capa, who is currently in line to be an ANC MP.

WSU spokeswoman Angela Church said all structures were represented in council and a democratic process was followed.

“The minister has a right to appoint people of his choice that he believes will add value to the council. These are people with excellent business backgrounds in both public and private sectors and a judge with knowledge in respect of law and governance.”