Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is excited to announce the appointment of Professor Luvuyo Ntombana as the new Director for Research, effective1 April 2024.
Professor Ntombana’s impressive academic career includes roles at notable South African universities such as the University of Fort Hare, Rhodes University, University of the Free State, and Nelson Mandela University. In his recent tenure at Nelson Mandela University, he held the positions of Director for the Raymond Mhlaba Centre for Governance and Leadership and Director of the School of Governmental and Social Sciences.
His national and international research experience is substantial, having presented at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University, Haverford College, and Leipzig University. Prof Ntombana has focused his research on Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), masculinities, and African identities, with numerous publications in these areas across local and international journals.
In his role as Director for Research, Prof Ntombana aims to lead SPU’s research directorate towards achieving its strategic goals by fostering a vibrant and dynamic research culture. His strategy includes promoting distinguished scholarship and reputable research and innovation, with a strong emphasis on achieving international competitiveness.
Prof Ntombana plans to automate processes related to research grants, output reporting, and research activity monitoring to boost efficiency. He is also focused on increasing the production of both traditional research outputs and creative outputs and innovations, in line with national guidelines. He is eager to ensure that SPU’s research engagements are both locally relevant and globally competitive. He intends to capitalise on local knowledge and indigenous heritage, especially focusing on the indigenous Khoi communities, to position SPU as a leader in these research fields.
Professor Ntombana is committed to capacitating early and mid-career scholars in all areas of academic life, including research, teaching, and community service. He anticipates further collaboration with various SPU divisions such as Finance, Human Resources, Student Affairs, and others to enhance research capacity and innovation.
Reflecting on his new role, Professor Ntombana recognises the unique challenges at SPU, particularly its location in one of South Africa’s economically poorer provinces and the socioeconomic barriers faced by its students. He admires the students’ eagerness to learn and is dedicated to supporting the academic and administrative staff in a constructive and systematic manner.
SPU warmly welcomes Prof Ntombana and we look forward to the advancements and contributions he will bring as the new Director of Research. His extensive experience and innovative leadership are expected to propel SPU’s research endeavors to new heights, ensuring significant academic achievements and enhanced institutional reputation.
