Tributes have poured in after the news of the death of former University of Western Cape (UWC) rector and vice-chancellor Professor Brian O’Connell.
O’Connell, a multidoctorate holder and recipient of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Lifetime Achievement award in 2017, died on Monday, having suffered health challenges since his retirement from UWC in 2014.
In a statement, UWC vice-chancellor Tyrone Pretorius said they learnt of O’Connell’s death with “a profound sense of sadness and loss”.
He served as rector from 2001 to 2014. He became rector at one of the most challenging times in the history of UWC. O’Connell, who was also a student at UWC in the mid-1960s, took the helm at a time when the university was facing the aftermath of staff retrenchments, financial vulnerability, the significant loss of academic leadership, evolving enrolment trends and a despondent campus community.
Pretorius said: “Professor O’Connell also believed that key to strengthening the academic core of the university was its physical re-imagining and transformation. This had begun in the era of his predecessor, Professor Jakes Gerwel, and O’Connell continued this approach. But in contrast with his predecessors’ centripetal focus, he pursued a centrifugal approach to develop new infrastructure along the campus edges to increase UWC’s visibility and put a ‘face to the place’,” said Pretorius.
“Even in his later years, despite facing health challenges, UWC remained close to his heart – a place where he found joy and inspiration; a place that he shaped into what it is today. His belief in UWC and his unwavering commitment to its mission have left an indelible mark on all of us. Professor O’Connell’s legacy is one of passionate conviction, intellectual clarity and engaged leadership. As we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and the lasting impact he has had on our university and our society,” said Pretorius.
The NRF described O’Connell as a “rare and passionate individual, a remarkable South African and a great human being, who committed himself to the upliftment of the country’s disadvantaged citizens and the restoration of their dignity”.
“International co-operation flourished under his leadership. He also took a bold stance in combating ignorance regarding HIV/Aids, earning him the role of chairperson of Higher Education South Africa’s Strategic Advisory Committee on HIV/Aids,” the NRF said.
The Community Chest Western Cape said O’Connell was a visionary leader, a dedicated educator and a passionate advocate for social justice and community development.
“His unwavering commitment to uplifting others and his profound impact on our organisation and the broader community will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his wisdom and kindness. May his legacy continue to inspire us all.”
O’Connell is survived by his wife and two children.
Cape Times