Professor Liezl van Dyk joined Stellenbosch University on 1 July 2026 as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and is already navigating the campus with curiosity—learning which parking areas are mythical and which coffee spots are strategically essential. Fortunately, navigating complexity has long been a hallmark of her professional life.

A professionally registered Industrial Engineer, full professor and NRF C-rated researcher, Prof Van Dyk brings over 27 years of experience in higher education. Her career spans academic leadership, research, teaching, and digital transformation. Prior to joining Stellenbosch University, she served as Executive Dean of Engineering at North-West University, where she led key initiatives in curriculum innovation, student success, infrastructure expansion, and AI-enabled learning.

She has longstanding ties to Stellenbosch University, where she completed her PhD in Industrial Engineering, focusing on telemedicine systems and digital health innovation. Her broader research interests include service systems engineering, artificial intelligence in education, and the evolving future of higher education in the context of Industry 4.0 and 5.0.

Prof Van Dyk is deeply committed to building inclusive, future-focused universities that integrate academic excellence, technological innovation, and meaningful societal impact.