Divine Ndhlukula Appointed Chancellor of the Women...

Divine Ndhlukula Appointed Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa

Audrey Galawu—Assistant Editor

Dr. Divine Simbi Ndhlukula has been named the new Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa. Expressing both gratitude and resolve, she stated:

“What an honor! I am deeply grateful to the Women's University in Africa for entrusting me with the role of Chancellor. This appointment is not just a personal milestone but a call to continue championing education, equity, and empowerment for women across our continent. Together, we will build on the Women’s University in Africa’s mission of addressing gender disparity and fostering equity in university education, shaping futures and creating lasting impact.”

The Chancellor serves as the ceremonial head of the university, performing duties such as presiding over graduation ceremonies, providing strategic guidance, and serving as a figurehead in institutional advancement.

Ndlukula takes over from Prof. Jane Naana Opoku‑Agyemang, a renowned Ghanaian academic and politician who was inaugurated in 2018 and served a notable tenure before formally concluding her role in 2024, marking the university’s 20th anniversary celebrations. Prof. Opoku‑Agyemang is now Ghana’s vice president.

Prior to that, the Chancellor was Dr. Inonge Mbikusita‑Lewanika.

Dr. Ndhlukula brings to the role a strong legacy of entrepreneurship, leadership, and advocacy for women's empowerment. She is the founder and managing director of Securico Security Services, which became the first Zimbabwean security company to achieve ISO 9001 certification and is one of the largest employers of women in the country outside of government.

Her leadership has been recognized with numerous honors, including being named one of Africa’s most successful women by Forbes, a top 10 CEO in Africa, and induction into the Global Business Hall of Fame

A Brief History of WUA

Founded in 2002 by Prof. Hope Cynthia Sadza and Dr. Fay Chung, WUA was born out of a vision to tackle gender imbalance in higher education across Africa. Located in Marondera, Zimbabwe, with satellite campuses in Harare, Kadoma, Mutare, and Bulawayo, the university operates under an enrollment policy of 80% women and 20% men. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across faculties such as agricultural, environmental, and health sciences, among others.