Prof Francis Petersen, new VC of the University of Pretoria, on leading one of Africa’s top universities

Prof Francis Petersen became Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria in October 2024, starting a new chapter in his already illustrious career in education. He was most recently Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Free State, where he was lauded for his focus on stability and transformation. He has previously served at a variety of higher education institutions and organisations in his industry. He is an engineer by training. 

In this episode, he chats to us about:

• His leadership style and personal philosophies; 
• Lessons learned from his industry and previous executive roles;
• The strategies and approaches that have shaped him as a leader;
• His vision for taking UP to new heights; and
• How micro-credentialing, partnerships and more will be a part of the future.

Find us by going to www.up.ac.za/leadup and clicking on Podcasts. To listen, you can stream, download, and subscribe online or on your favourite podcast app on your phone. Help us out by rating and reviewing us. 

LeadUP is a production of the University of Pretoria’s Alumni Office. Our host is Lennox Wasara and our team includes Elna Schütz and Samantha Castle. Our technical engineers are Meropa Communications, with language and marketing services from Brightlight SA Communications.