The Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology, Dr Alfred Madigele, has appointed Professor David Norris as the sixth Vice Chancellor of the University of Botswana with effect from December 1, 2017.
Since its inception in 1982, UB has had five Vice Chancellors in Professor John Turner (1982-1984), Professor Thomas Tlou (1984-1998), Professor Sharon Siverts (1998-2003), Professor Bojosi Otlhogile (2003-2011) and Professor Thabo Fako (2011-2017).
Prior to joining UB, Professor Norris was Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), a position he had held since 2016. Prior to working for BUIST, he worked for the University of Limpopo ((formerly University of the North) of South Africa from 20016 to 2016. He also worked for Austin Peay State University in USA from 1998 to 2000.
Professor Norris is a graduate of the University of Botswana, having obtained a BSc in Biology and Physics in 1988 after which he worked for the Department of Agricultural Research as well as a part time biology lecturer at UB. Professor Norris holds a PhD in Animal Science obtained from Michigan State University (USA) attained in 1998 with a major in Animal Breeding and Genetics, and minors in Statistics and Animal Biotechnology. He also holds an MSc in Animal and Forage Science obtained from the University of Reading (UK) in 1991 with a major in Animal Production and minors in Biochemistry.
In addition, Prof Norris received a Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Research for Development in 2008 from the University of Wageningen International Centre for Development Oriented Research in Agriculture (ICRA) in the Netherlands.
He is a renowned scholar who has published widely in reputable journals. His notable strengths are in Innovative Teaching and Learning; Curriculum Development and Review; Research Development and Innovation; Higher Education Administration and Management; Change Management, Process Management and Strategic Leadership; with a notable record in research collaboration and research fundraising.
Welcoming the new Vice Chancellor to the University, Acting Council Chairperson, Mrs Mpho Mothibatseala, assured Professor Norris of everyone’s support and commitment to take the University to greater heights.
Mrs Mothibatsela also thanked Professor Kgomotso Moahi for holding fort since February this year after the departure of Professor Fako who was Vice Chancellor for the past five years. She said Professor Moahi demonstrated dedication and stewardship during the 10 months she was Acting Vice Chancellor.