Dr Grace Naledi Pandor
Dr Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor took up the position of Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University on 1 April 2026. She will be officially installed as Chancellor on Wednesday 8 April 2026, at 14:00.
Dr Pandor is one of South Africa’s most respected intellectual leaders and public servants, whose distinguished career reflects a lifelong commitment to education, scholarship, democratic governance and social advancement.
Born into a family deeply rooted in the struggle for justice and equality, her early life shaped her enduring values of service, courage and intellectual freedom. She began her professional journey as an English teacher before becoming a lecturer at the University of Bophuthatswana and later at the University of Cape Town. She holds master’s degrees in education and linguistics from the Universities of London and Stellenbosch.
Since 1994, Dr Pandor held several senior leadership roles in government. As Minister of Education (2004–2009), she launched the Kha Ri Gude Mass Literacy Campaign, significantly reducing adult illiteracy. As Minister of Science and Technology (2009–2012), she led South Africa’s successful bid to host a major component of the Square Kilometre Array, strengthening the country’s global scientific standing. In her role as Minister of Higher Education and Training, she advanced research capacity, innovation and the development of emerging scholars.
She also served as Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, demonstrating principled leadership and a steadfast commitment to transformation. While she was Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, she was awarded a PhD in Education in 2019 by the University of Pretoria.
Dr Pandor’s intellectual leadership and service make her exceptionally well suited to serve as Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University, where she will help guide and inspire future generations.
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