We are delighted to announce the appointment of Prof. Hellicy Ngambi as the new Chairperson of the UbuntuNet Alliance, effective from 1st January 2024. Prof. Ngambi brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to her role, following in the footsteps of the esteemed Prof. Stephen Simukanga, who served two successful terms as the Alliance’s Chairperson.
Prof. Ngambi’s distinguished career is marked by pioneering leadership and a commitment to excellence in education and research. As the Vice Chancellor of the University of Kabwe and the founder & CEO of Mutepa RARE Solutions, she embodies the principles of Responsible, Accountable, Relevant, and Ethical (RARE) leadership. Her extensive background includes significant contributions to academia, with notable appointments such as Vice Chancellor at Mulungushi University and leadership roles at the University of South Africa (Unisa) and Kwame Nkrumah University.
Throughout her career, Prof. Ngambi has shattered glass ceilings, becoming the first woman and black person to hold various executive positions. Her academic credentials, including a Doctorate in Business Leadership and multiple master’s degrees, reflect her dedication to continuous learning and professional development.
Beyond academia, Prof. Ngambi’s influence extends to the realm of governance and public service, where she has served on numerous committees and boards, including as Vice Chairperson of the Central Bank of Zambia. Her accolades, including consecutive wins of CEO African’s Most Influential Women of the Year awards and the 2017 Continental Lifetime Achiever Award, attest to her significant impact in government and business spheres.
Prof. Ng’ambi is not new to the research and education networking community in Eastern and Southern Africa. Between 2015 and 2022, she served for two terms as a member of the UbuntuNet Alliance Board of Trustees, including one term as Vice Chairperson. She was a member of the Zambia Research and Education Network’s (ZAMREN) Board prior to that.
In her statement outlining her vision and goals for her tenure, Prof. Ngambi articulates a commitment to advancing the UbuntuNet Alliance’s mission of connecting, developing, and sustaining research and education networks in Eastern and Southern Africa. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying service offerings, promoting self-sustainability, and aligning efforts with Agenda 2030 and Vision 2063.
Prof. Ngambi’s leadership philosophy, grounded in RARE principles, resonates deeply with the values of UbuntuNet Alliance. Her strategic vision and dedication to empowering communities through education and technology position her as an inspiring leader poised to steer the Alliance towards greater heights.