Thebe Ikalafeng appointed new chancellor of Sol Plaatje University

BRAND Leadership Group founder and chairperson Thebe Ikalafeng has been appointed as the new chancellor of Sol Plaatje University. His appointment came into effect from January 16.

The 1985 head boy of St Boniface High School in Kimberley is the recipient of honorary doctorates from the University of Johannesburg and the University of South Africa in 2024, for his exceptional contributions to marketing, communications and promoting the African brand. 

Chairperson of Council, Professor Randall Carolissen, said Sol Plaatje University was honoured that the award-winning author, internationally recognised scholar and influential public intellectual had made himself available to serve as chancellor.

"Ikalafeng has distinguished himself as the continent’s foremost authority on branding, reputation, and identity, and as a leading advocate for a brand-led African renaissance.

"His depth of intellect, global standing, extensive business, academic and civic networks will significantly strengthen the university’s ambition to be an institution of first choice and a catalyst for unlocking the immense cultural, intellectual, and economic potential of the Northern Cape and its people while advancing the university’s growing national and international stature.”

Commitment to plough back into the community

Professor Carolissen added that Ikalafeng’s return to his place of birth reflects his commitment to plough back into his community to realise his vision of education, dignity and African self-confidence.

"Ikalafeng is widely recognised as the continent’s most influential thinker and practitioner at the intersection of branding, culture and governance. He has travelled to every country in Africa and every continent in the world. He has shaped how institutions, cities, countries and the continent understand and project their identity." 

He added that Ikalafeng was a trusted adviser to several African heads of state and public institutions on nation branding, competitiveness, investment promotion and cultural diplomacy. 

"He has played a pivotal role in the transformation and rebranding of multiple higher education institutions in South Africa and beyond. Ikalafeng has served on the Council of Sol Plaatje University, bringing continuity, institutional memory, and strategic insight to his new role as chancellor." 

Stewardship and service

Ikalafeng said he regarded the role of chancellor as one of stewardship and service.

“I accept this appointment with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility. Sol Plaatje University is firmly rooted in the Northern Cape — a province rich in history, resilience, and possibility — yet its mandate and influence extend far beyond its geography.

"Named after one of Africa’s most influential intellectuals, patriots, and pan-Africanists, Solomon Plaatje, the university carries a legacy of scholarship that speaks confidently from Africa to the world. To return to Kimberley, my home city and a place that helped shape South Africa’s political economy, is both a homecoming and a calling," he stated 

Ikalafeng succeeds Constitutional Court Judge Steven Majiedt, whose second term as chancellor concluded on October 20 last year.