Prof Aslam Fataar, Vice Dean: Research in the Faculty of Education, and 14 other professors at Stellenbosch University (SU) were appointed as Distinguished Professors recently.

It was only the second time that SU bestowed this honour on its leading academics. The first group of Distinguished Professors was appointed in 2014. Prof Yusef Waghid from the Department of Education Policy Studies and Prof Lesley le Grange from the Department of Curriculum Studies were part of this group (article).

The Faculty of Education now has three distinguished professors.

The criteria for eligibility included: Having been appointed as a professor at SU for at least five years; continuous excellent performance over the last three years; international stature; proven exceptional performance and leadership in higher education in research and publications, postgraduate study leadership, learning and teaching, and community interaction.

The appointment is valid for five years and re-appointments can be considered. 

Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of SU, said the title of "Distinguished Professor" was created to recognise the institution's best academics who have reached the pinnacle of achievement in their university careers.

"This is recognition for you, and confirmation of the University's commitment to academic excellence, as reflected in the good standing that our institution currently maintains internationally."

Read article: SU appoints new crop of distinguished professors