The University of the Free State (UFS) has welcomed the appointment of Marisna Nel, Chief Financial Officer, to the Finance and Investment Committee (FIC) of Universities South Africa (USAf) – the representative body of South Africa’s public universities.

Nel was appointed by the Executive Committee of the USAf Board of Directors following a nomination and selection process. Her three-year term took effect immediately and will run until 31 May 2029.

According to Dr Phethiwe Matutu, Chief Executive Officer of USAf, Nel’s appointment followed the organisation’s governance processes, and her "knowledge, expertise, and experience in the higher education finance environment are highly valued".

"It is a privilege to contribute to a structure that supports the financial sustainability and long-term success of South Africa's public universities,” says Nel.  “Higher education institutions operate in a complex environment, and sound financial stewardship is essential to ensuring that universities can continue to fulfil their teaching, research, and societal responsibilities."

Supporting financial sustainability across the sector

The Finance and Investment Committee supports the USAf Board by overseeing financial matters relating to the organisation. Its responsibilities include oversight of financial strategy, budgeting, investment policies, financial performance, and internal financial controls.

As a member of the committee, Nel will contribute to discussions and decisions that help guide the financial sustainability and strategic direction of South Africa’s public university sector. Her appointment also creates an opportunity for the UFS to share expertise and collaborate with peers on issues affecting higher education finance nationally.

"I look forward to engaging with colleagues from across the sector and contributing to discussions that support effective governance, responsible financial management, and sustainable growth within higher education,” says Nel. “This appointment also provides an opportunity to share insights and learn from peers who are equally committed to strengthening our universities."

In her appointment letter, Dr Matutu expressed confidence that Nel would "make a meaningful contribution to the fulfilment of the Committee’s responsibilities and mandate". She also noted that USAf looks forward to Nel’s support and valuable contributions to the work of the committee.

The appointment reflects the calibre of leadership within the university and highlights the role that UFS professionals continue to play in shaping and strengthening the higher education landscape. Through participation in sector-wide governance structures, the university contributes its expertise to initiatives that support sustainable institutions and enable universities to fulfil their academic and societal mandates.