The Southern African Regional Universities Association (SARUA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Stephen Simukanga as executive director, following his term as interim executive director since June 2024.
Professor Simukanga’s appointment follows a unanimous decision by the SARUA Board, recognising his steady leadership and regional engagement.
“SARUA has entered a new chapter,” says SARUA Board Chair Professor Quinton Kanhukamwe. “Stephen has shown the vision, diplomacy and commitment we need to strengthen our role in the region.”
Reflecting on his appointment, Professor Simukanga said:
“It’s been a privilege to serve in this role over the past year, and I’m pleased to continue this work in a more permanent capacity. There’s real momentum across the region, and SARUA is well placed to help shape what comes next. I look forward to deepening our partnerships, amplifying the voice of our institutions and building a shared agenda for the future.”
Professor Simukanga is the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Zambia and Director General of the Higher Education Authority in Zambia. He brings decades of experience in academic leadership, policy engagement and regional development. His appointment signals SARUA’s commitment to revitalising collaboration, dialogue and innovation in Southern African higher education.
