Unisa Executive and Leadership Team

Raphael Mpofu, the Chief Executive Officer at Unisa, directs the overarching strategy and vision for Africa's largest open distance learning institution. Mpofu guides the university's commitment to innovative teaching and impactful research, ensuring alignment with its mission to address societal challenges. This leadership role involves fostering collaborations and partnerships to expand Unisa's reach and impact both locally and internationally. Overseeing all major university initiatives, Raphael Mpofu ensures the institution remains at the forefront of distance education, adapting to evolving global learning landscapes and maintaining its position as a world-leading distance learning university. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing student success and driving institutional growth through strategic planning and execution.

Michael Fadner, the Chief Financial Officer at Unisa, manages the institution's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Fadner oversees all financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility across Unisa's extensive operations. This critical role involves optimizing financial performance to support the university's mission of providing accessible education and conducting impactful research. By implementing robust financial controls and driving efficiency, Michael Fadner ensures sustainable growth and the effective deployment of capital to meet the needs of nearly one-third of South Africa's student population. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing investments and securing funding to support Unisa's diverse academic programs and community engagement initiatives.

Matthew Chinn, the Chief Operating Officer at Unisa, directs the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the university's extensive infrastructure and service delivery. Chinn oversees the management of daily operations, ensuring seamless support for Unisa's vast student body and academic staff across South Africa and beyond. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining the quality and accessibility of distance learning programs, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. By optimizing resource utilization and streamlining processes, Matthew Chinn enhances the student experience and supports the university's commitment to impactful research and community engagement. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing facilities, logistics, and administrative functions to uphold Unisa's status as a leading global institution.

Mduduzi Mabuza, the President at Unisa, provides high-level leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic and administrative functions. Mabuza champions Unisa's mission to provide accessible education and drive impactful research, fostering an environment conducive to learning and innovation. This role is central to advancing the university's standing as a leading open distance learning institution globally. By guiding institutional development and representing Unisa in key forums, Mduduzi Mabuza ensures the university effectively addresses societal challenges and serves its diverse student body. The President's leadership focuses on strengthening Unisa's commitment to excellence in education and community impact.

Onkatlile Mbele, The Annual Conversation With President and Chancellor Thabo Mbeki Dialogue Delegate at Unisa, participates in key discussions and initiatives shaping the university's strategic dialogue. Mbele contributes to dialogues that advance Unisa's mission of accessible education and societal impact, engaging with critical issues relevant to higher learning. This role involves representing student perspectives and fostering constructive engagement within the university community. By participating in these significant conversations, Onkatlile Mbele supports Unisa's commitment to impactful research and community development. The delegate's involvement ensures diverse voices are heard in shaping the future direction of this leading open distance learning institution.

Qhama Mati, the National SRC Deputy President at Unisa, represents student interests and advocates for student welfare within the university governance structure. Mati plays a key part in ensuring student voices are heard in policy-making and operational decisions, supporting Unisa's commitment to accessible education. This leadership position involves collaborating with university management to address student concerns and enhance the overall learning experience. By championing student rights and fostering engagement, Qhama Mati contributes to the vibrant academic community at Africa's largest open distance learning institution. The Deputy President's focus remains on empowering students and promoting their success in academic and personal development.

Zukile Mgolombane, the Chief of Staff at Unisa, provides strategic support and operational coordination to the executive leadership team. Mgolombane facilitates the execution of key university initiatives, ensuring alignment across departments and driving progress on strategic objectives. This role is vital for enhancing communication and collaboration within the institution, supporting Unisa's mission to provide accessible education and address societal challenges. By managing critical projects and advising leadership, Zukile Mgolombane contributes to the effective governance and operational excellence of Africa's largest open distance learning university. The Chief of Staff's focus includes optimizing workflows and ensuring the efficient implementation of university policies and programs.

Monica Constable, the Office of The Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer, Amp at Unisa, leads the strategic direction and implementation of information and communication technology initiatives. Constable oversees the technological infrastructure supporting Unisa's extensive distance learning operations, ensuring robust and accessible digital platforms for students and staff. This role is paramount in driving innovation in educational technology and supporting the university's commitment to impactful research and community engagement. By managing IT resources and developing advanced digital solutions, Monica Constable enhances the learning experience and operational efficiency across the institution. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes cybersecurity, data management, and the integration of new technologies to maintain Unisa's leadership in open distance education.

Mathabo Nakene, the Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer at Unisa, drives the technological vision and operational execution for the institution's information and communication technology services. Nakene is responsible for the development and maintenance of digital infrastructure that supports Unisa's vast student population and academic endeavors. This leadership position ensures the seamless delivery of online learning resources and administrative systems, crucial for Africa's largest open distance learning university. By championing technological advancements, Mathabo Nakene enhances student access, supports cutting-edge research, and strengthens community engagement initiatives. The Chief Information Officer's strategic focus includes cybersecurity, digital transformation, and ensuring Unisa remains at the forefront of educational technology.

Kereeditse Modisane, the Hrd at Unisa, leads the human resources division, focusing on talent management and organizational development. Modisane oversees strategies for recruitment, employee relations, and professional development, ensuring Unisa attracts and retains skilled personnel to support its educational mission. This role is critical for fostering a productive and supportive work environment for faculty and staff across the institution. By implementing effective HR policies and programs, Kereeditse Modisane contributes to the operational excellence and strategic goals of Africa's largest open distance learning university. The Hrd's efforts are directed towards enhancing employee engagement and aligning human capital with Unisa's commitment to impactful research and community service.