Rector's Site
Welcome to Stellenbosch University

​​Prof H Russel Botman

Professor Hayman Russel Botman was halfway through his second term as Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU) when he unexpectedly passed away in his sleep on 28 June 2014.

This was his home page on SU's website.

Stellenbosch University (SU) is a world-class institution that is held in high esteem for its expertise in research and its contribution to the development of intellectual capital and human potential. As one of the foremost universities in South Africa and Africa, SU is a national and continental asset.

At the start of my first term in 2007, I said that the challenge for the University was to move from success to significance in order to be of relevance to the people of our country and continent. This vision was embodied in the HOPE Project, which was launched publically in 2010 with the following themes: the eradication of poverty and related conditions, and the promotion of human dignity and health, democracy and human rights, peace and security, as well as a sustainable environment and a competitive industry.

It is with great pride that I can say that the University has since improved the lives of many people. SU is also well placed to meet institutional challenges in order to strengthen its position as a top university and an important societal partner.

 The foundation for this is provided in the SU Institutional Intent and Strategy 2013-2018, as approved by the University Council. We aim to position SU as a leading institution in the 21st century by becoming more inclusive, innovative and future-oriented. This we are doing by improving access to the University, maintaining the momentum of our excellence and increasing our impact on society. Together, these focal points will enable us to turn our staff members and students into thought leaders for the future. That is SU's Vision 2030.

In today's rapidly changing world with its comprehensive information networks, we must keep pace with new ways of discovering, transferring and applying knowledge. Our staff and and students are therefore encouraged to constantly think creatively about social responsibility, sustainability and entrepreneurship.

At Maties we educate well-rounded students to enter the future as innovators and leaders. Here they are equipped with the necessary skills to face the challenges that await them in various spheres with confidence. We therefore focus not only on the acquisition of knowledge but also the values that will help build a better society.

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Maties Lusaka reunion - Keynote Prof Russel Botman & Adv Thuli Madonsela​​ Prof R Botman after the Council meeting of 29 April 2013. ​​​​​​

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