Zimbabwean Tech Executive Stanley Mpofu Joins SAICA Board in Major Leadership Milestone

By Staff Reporter |

Zimbabwean-born technology and higher education leader Dr Stanley Mpofu has been appointed to the board of South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), marking another significant achievement in a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years in information and communications technology (ICT) and higher education leadership.

Widely regarded as South Africa’s premier accounting body, SAICA is responsible for the training, accreditation, and regulation of chartered accountants and is recognized internationally for its influence in the profession.

## Recognition of Leadership and Governance Excellence

Mpofu, who currently serves as Chief Information Officer at University of the Witwatersrand, said the appointment reflects the trust placed in his leadership, governance, and strategic management capabilities.

In his new role, he will contribute to strengthening ethical leadership, accountability, transparency, and effective oversight within the organization. His work will be guided by established corporate governance principles, including the King IV framework and emerging King V standards, aimed at promoting sustainable organizational performance.

## Growing Influence in Higher Education and Technology

The appointment follows Mpofu’s recent inclusion in the ICT Committee of Council at the Council on Higher Education, further expanding his role in shaping South Africa’s education and technology landscape.

He also serves as chairperson of Higher Education Information Technology South Africa and sits on several national ICT-related boards, positioning him at the forefront of digital transformation and governance initiatives across the country.

Despite his growing list of responsibilities, Mpofu reaffirmed his commitment to his leadership role at Wits University while continuing to contribute to national development through strategic governance.

## From IT Technician to National Technology Leader

Mpofu’s professional journey began in 1995 when he joined Transnet as a desktop technician. Through years of dedication and innovation, he rose through the ranks before being appointed CIO of Wits University in 2017.

Since then, he has transformed the institution’s ICT division into a strategic driver of innovation, digital learning, and institutional modernization. He was instrumental in introducing smart classroom technologies and leading the university’s successful transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring uninterrupted academic delivery during a challenging period.

## Driving Digital Inclusion Across South Africa

Beyond his work at Wits, Mpofu has championed greater digital access within the higher education sector.

His efforts have contributed to the expansion of Eduroam connectivity across South Africa’s 26 public universities and several other institutions, including the City of Johannesburg and Airports Company South Africa, improving access to digital services and educational resources for thousands of users.

A Chartered CIO and certified director, Mpofu is widely recognized as one of South Africa’s leading voices in digital transformation, governance, and innovation.

## Decorated Career of Excellence

His achievements have earned him numerous industry accolades, including the Visionary CIO of the Year Award in 2020, CIO of the Year in 2024, and the prestigious CIO of the Decade in the Public Sector award from the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa.

His appointment to the SAICA board further strengthens his reputation as a respected leader whose expertise spans technology, education, and corporate governance, while highlighting the growing impact of Zimbabwean professionals on the regional and global stage.