Windhoek-based Sunshine Private College has appointed former Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Namibia, Professor Jairos Kangira, as its new Rector, effective July 1.
With an impressive resume and a wealth of experience in higher education spanning over 30 years, Professor Kangira has been tasked with leading the privately run college into a new era of growth and innovation.
Kangira holds a PhD in Rhetoric Studies from the University of Cape Town and has an extensive educational portfolio that includes an MPhil in Linguistics and multiple degrees in linguistics and education. His credentials demonstrate his commitment to academic excellence and passion for education.
Prior to his successful 15-year stint with UNAM, where he served as a full professor of English, Kangira held various leadership positions, including as Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Zimbabwe.
His dedication to academic excellence across Southern Africa and internationally has earned him numerous accolades, including an honorary professorship from the University of Cardiff, United Kingdom, and recognition as the best academic staff member at the University of Namibia.
In addition to his administrative and teaching roles, Professor Kangira has made significant contributions to research and scholarship. He is renowned for producing 18 doctoral graduates and several master’s graduates in English at the University of Namibia and for launching peer-reviewed journals of international standards – the Journal for Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences as well as Nawa: Journal of Language and Communication.
He has also published extensively in various academic journals. His research interests include linguistics, rhetoric, and the intersection of language and culture.
As the new rector, Professor Kangira’s major assignment is to transform Sunshine Private College into an applied university of education, emphasising innovative teaching practices and community engagement. “I am excited about the opportunity to lead Sunshine Private College and work collaboratively with faculty, students, and the community to achieve our collective goals. At Sunshine Private College we place education first,” Kangira said.
The college management expects Professor Kangira’s leadership to drive Sunshine Private College towards new heights and create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
In his spare time, Professor Kangira writes about issues on higher education in his regular Friday column for the daily New Era newspaper.