The University of the Free State (UFS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Prof Sam Tshehla as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Strategic Initiatives, International and Institutional Affairs, effective 1 April 2026.

Prof Tshehla is an academic leader, applied mathematician, and higher education strategist with more than two decades of experience in university leadership, research, and institutional development. He currently serves as Professor of Mathematics and Dean of the Faculty of Military Science at Stellenbosch University (SU), where he has played a pivotal role in advancing academic excellence, research impact, and international engagement within the faculty. He also serves as acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Strategy, Global and Corporate Affairs at SU, where he leads key institutional priorities, including strategic planning, global engagement, international partnerships, student recruitment strategy, and corporate communication. His leadership contributed to strengthening the university’s strategic positioning and global engagement, while fostering collaboration with government, industry, and academic partners.

Prof Tshehla holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Cape Town, an MSc in Applied Mathematics (cum laude) from the University of Limpopo, and he recently completed a Master of Business Administration (Executive) at the University of Cape Town, focusing on leadership effectiveness in higher education institutions.

An accomplished scholar in applied mathematics, Prof Tshehla’s research interests include fluid mechanics, thin-film fluid dynamics, and the mathematical modelling of physiological flows, particularly blood flow systems. In addition to his academic work, he has delivered numerous invited lectures and keynote addresses within the security and defence sector nationally and internationally, contributing to leadership development and governance discourse across Africa and beyond.

“Prof Tshehla is a seasoned academic leader who brings extensive expertise in strategic planning, institutional foresight, and executive governance. Having served in executive roles, he has a proven ability to translate vision into measurable outcomes. Prof Tshehla has driven global research partnerships and global engagement frameworks, as well as inclusive curriculum initiatives. His commitment to innovation ensures that he is uniquely positioned to enhance the University of the Free State’s global visibility and social impact,” says Prof Hester C. Klopper, University of the Free State Vice-Chancellor and Principal.

“I am delighted to be joining the University of the Free State community and look forward to contributing to the institution’s strategic ambitions, global partnerships, and institutional transformation as part of my new academic home,” says Prof Tshehla.

Prof Tshehla’s contributions to higher education and security education have been widely recognised. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Golden Star Award for Distinguished Service in Security Education in Africa, the Africa Leadership Award in Education for Best Professor in Military Science, and recognition among the 251 Fabulous Leaders in the World in the field of education by the World Education Congress. Prof Tshehla has undertaken extensive executive and leadership training, including the Advanced Management Programme at INSEAD and the Nyukela Programme for entry into South Africa’s Senior Management Service through the National School of Government.