Unisa Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Unisa has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Unisa is dedicated to fostering lifelong learning and addressing societal needs through innovative teaching and research, impacting over a million alumni globally.

Leadership Roles at Unisa

  • Chief Executive Officer - Raphael Mpofu
  • Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer - Valiant Clapper
  • Chief Financial Officer - Dimakatso Mosala
  • Chief Operating Officer - Matthew Chinn
  • National SRC Deputy President - Qhama Mati
  • President - Mduduzi Mabuza
  • Chief of Staff - Zukile Mgolombane
  • Office of The Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer, Amp - Monica Constable
  • Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer - Mathabo Nakene
  • Hrd - Kereeditse Modisane
  • Raphael Mpofu - Chief Executive Officer

    Raphael Mpofu, the Chief Executive Officer at Unisa, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for Africa's largest open distance learning institution. Mpofu guides the university's commitment to innovative teaching and research, ensuring alignment with societal needs and community engagement objectives. This leadership role involves overseeing the development and delivery of over 500 qualifications, catering to a diverse student body exceeding 370,000 individuals. By fostering a culture of academic excellence and accessibility, Raphael Mpofu drives Unisa's mission to provide quality education across South Africa and beyond. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on expanding the institution's reach and impact, solidifying its position as a global leader in distance education.

    Valiant Clapper - Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer

    Valiant Clapper, the Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at Unisa, assumes critical leadership responsibilities, driving operational continuity and strategic initiatives during a transitional period. Clapper ensures the effective management of the university's extensive academic and administrative functions, supporting over 370,000 students. This role demands a keen focus on maintaining Unisa's standing as a premier open distance learning institution while navigating evolving educational landscapes. Valiant Clapper oversees the implementation of policies and programs designed to enhance student success and research output, directly contributing to the university's societal impact. The Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer's leadership ensures Unisa continues its legacy of accessible, quality education.

    Dimakatso Mosala - Chief Financial Officer

    Dimakatso Mosala, the Chief Financial Officer at Unisa, manages the institution's comprehensive financial strategy and operations, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability. Mosala oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation across Unisa's vast academic and administrative departments, supporting over 370,000 students. This critical role involves safeguarding the university's assets and optimizing financial performance to support its mission of accessible education and impactful research. Dimakatso Mosala ensures compliance with financial regulations and drives efficiency in all fiscal matters, enabling Unisa to continue its extensive outreach and community engagement initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital for maintaining Unisa's position as a leading open distance learning university.

    Matthew Chinn - Chief Operating Officer

    Matthew Chinn, the Chief Operating Officer at Unisa, directs the day-to-day operational activities and infrastructure supporting the university's extensive educational offerings. Chinn oversees the efficient functioning of administrative services, student support systems, and operational logistics for over 370,000 students across Africa and globally. This leadership position is crucial for ensuring the seamless delivery of Unisa's over 500 qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate programs. Matthew Chinn focuses on optimizing processes and resource utilization to enhance the student experience and support academic innovation. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight ensures Unisa's operational capacity aligns with its commitment to accessible, high-quality distance education.

    Qhama Mati - National SRC Deputy President

    Qhama Mati, the National SRC Deputy President at Unisa, represents the student body, advocating for student welfare and academic interests within the university governance structure. Mati plays a key role in bridging communication between students and university management, ensuring student voices are heard in decision-making processes affecting over 370,000 learners. This leadership position involves championing initiatives that enhance the student experience, promote inclusivity, and support academic success. Qhama Mati works to address student concerns and foster a positive and supportive learning environment. The National SRC Deputy President's dedication is vital to Unisa's commitment to student-centric education and community engagement.

    Mduduzi Mabuza - President

    Mduduzi Mabuza, the President at Unisa, holds a significant leadership position, driving the strategic direction and institutional advancement of Africa's largest open distance learning university. Mabuza's responsibilities encompass guiding Unisa's commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and societal impact for its over 370,000 students. This role is pivotal in shaping the university's future, ensuring its continued relevance and leadership in the global higher education landscape. Mduduzi Mabuza oversees key initiatives that enhance Unisa's reach and effectiveness in delivering quality education. The President's vision is central to maintaining Unisa's legacy and expanding its influence.

    Zukile Mgolombane - Chief of Staff

    Zukile Mgolombane, the Chief of Staff at Unisa, provides strategic support and operational coordination across key executive functions, ensuring alignment with the university's mission. Mgolombane facilitates communication and collaboration between different departments and leadership levels, enhancing the efficiency of Unisa's extensive operations serving over 370,000 students. This role is pivotal in driving strategic projects and initiatives that advance Unisa's commitment to innovative teaching, research, and community engagement. Zukile Mgolombane supports the executive leadership in navigating complex challenges and opportunities within the higher education sector. The Chief of Staff's influence extends to optimizing resource deployment and ensuring strategic objectives are met effectively.

    Monica Constable - Office of The Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer, Amp

    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 across the institution. Constable oversees the technological infrastructure supporting Unisa's vast operations, including its over 370,000 students and extensive online learning platforms. This role is essential for driving digital transformation, enhancing cybersecurity, and ensuring the reliable delivery of educational services. Monica Constable focuses on leveraging ICT to support innovative teaching, research, and administrative efficiency. The Office of The Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer, Amp's leadership ensures Unisa remains at the forefront of technological advancement in distance education.

    Mathabo Nakene - Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer

    Mathabo Nakene, the Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer at Unisa, spearheads the technological vision and execution for the university's digital landscape. Nakene manages the development and maintenance of robust IT systems and infrastructure, crucial for supporting over 370,000 students and Unisa's extensive online learning environment. This position is fundamental to advancing the institution's commitment to innovative teaching, research, and operational efficiency through cutting-edge technology. Mathabo Nakene ensures that Unisa's ICT capabilities align with its strategic goals, fostering a secure and accessible digital experience for all stakeholders. The Ict Vice Principal & Chief Information Officer's guidance is key to Unisa's continued success in distance education.

    Kereeditse Modisane - Hrd

    Kereeditse Modisane, the Hrd at Unisa, directs human resource development strategies and operations, focusing on talent management and organizational effectiveness. Modisane oversees initiatives aimed at recruiting, developing, and retaining a skilled workforce essential for Unisa's mission of providing accessible education to over 370,000 students. This role is critical in fostering a productive and supportive work environment that aligns with the university's commitment to innovative teaching and research. Kereeditse Modisane ensures that HR practices contribute to Unisa's strategic objectives and enhance employee engagement. The Hrd's leadership is instrumental in building a robust team capable of driving Unisa's continued success in distance learning.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Unisa Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Unisa?
    Unisa is led by Raphael Mpofu (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Valiant Clapper (Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer) and Dimakatso Mosala (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Unisa’s executive team?
    The executive team of Unisa includes leaders such as Raphael Mpofu (Chief Executive Officer), Valiant Clapper (Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer), Dimakatso Mosala (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Unisa have?
    Unisa has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Unisa’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Unisa includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Acting Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, National SRC Deputy President.