Professor Samson Sitheni Mashele
Former Dean of the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Professor Mashele was appointed to this role effective 1 November 2025. His leadership and academic excellence have significantly contributed to the university’s growth, and his new role marks an exciting chapter in advancing CUT’s research and innovation agenda.
Professional Journey and Research Impact
Transformative Leadership
Professor Mashele is a distinguished scholar and transformative leader in higher education, widely recognised for his outstanding record in academic leadership, research innovation, and institutional transformation. With a career spanning several decades, he has made an indelible impact on the South African higher education landscape through his visionary approach to teaching, research, and digital transformation, driving innovation that bridges science, technology, and societal impact.
Research Excellence and Mentorship
A highly accomplished researcher, Professor Mashele established the Drug Discovery and Development Unit, which has since evolved into a centre of international repute with global collaborations. His prolific scientific output comprises over 125 accredited publications in high-impact journals. As a passionate mentor, he has supervised more than 50 Master's and Doctoral students and over five postdoctoral fellows, many of whom now occupy leadership positions in academia and industry across Africa.
National and International Accolades
His exceptional contributions have earned him multiple accolades, including recognition as Best Facilitator and Lecturer, and a prestigious nomination to "Who's Who in the World", acknowledging his global influence in science, education, and innovation. As a visionary change-maker, he continues to inspire transformation across the broader African and global higher education landscape.
Sections and Centres in the Office
The Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor oversees a dynamic portfolio of units and centres dedicated to advancing research, fostering innovation, and driving meaningful community and global engagement.
Community Engagement
Fostering meaningful, mutually beneficial partnerships between the university and surrounding communities to drive social impact.
Centre for Global Engagement
Managing international collaborations and serving as a knowledge hub for comprehensive internationalisation and academic partnerships.
Research Development and Postgraduate Studies
Driving research capacity development, supporting postgraduate students, and enhancing the university's research output and impact.
Technology and Innovation
Facilitating technology transfer, intellectual property management, and the commercialisation of university research.
Work Integrated Learning and Industry Liaison(WIL)
Facilitating practical workplace experience, industry partnerships, and the transition from academia to the professional world.
Library and Information Services
Providing comprehensive information resources, research support, and digital learning environments for students and staff.
Specialised Centres and Academic Support
Several specialised research centres and academic support units report to this office. Please note that some of these entities may have dual reporting lines with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning. View the full directory.