University of Warwick appoints Gawanas as new chancellor

Namibian lawyer, diplomat and social justice advocate Bience Gawanas has been appointed as the new chancellor of the University of Warwick in England.

Gawanas, a former under-secretary-general of the United Nations and Namibia’s former ombudsman, will start her new role in January.

She will serve as the ceremonial head of the university, presiding over major events, including graduation ceremonies, and acting as an ambassador for the institution's principles of academic excellence, diversity and social impact.

Commenting on the appointment, Professor Stuart Croft, vice-chancellor and president of the university, said: "Bience brings a wealth of international experience and a deep commitment to education and global development".

Gawanas fought against the South African apartheid- era government and was forced into exile with many other Namibians. As a refugee at the time, she undertook her legal studies at Warwick University as part of a scholarship scheme. She graduated in 1986 and qualified as a barrister at Lincoln's Inn in 1987, returning to Namibia in 1989.