Motivation for Appointment to the University Convocation Executive Committee

• Supporting the Candidature of Emeritus Associate Professor Gonda Perez

Emeritus Associate Professor Gonda Perez is an exemplary candidate for the University Convocation Committee, bringing with her a wealth of experience, distinguished academic achievements, and a longstanding commitment to public service and transformation in health sciences education. Her multifaceted career, spanning over two decades, is a testament to her dedication to fostering inclusivity, excellence, and innovation within academic and health sectors.

• Academic and Professional Background

Prof. Perez holds a Master’s degree in Dentistry (M.Dent) in Community Dentistry from the University of the Witwatersrand, conferred in 1998. Since then, she has built a strong foundation in teaching, research, and service, with significant publications in Health and Human Rights, Public Health, transformation, and occupational health. Her scholarly contributions have not only advanced knowledge in these fields but have also informed policy and practice within South Africa’s health sector.

• Leadership and Service in Health and Public Administration

Her professional journey includes impactful roles in government, such as Director of Health Promotion and Communication and Head of Ministerial Services, Welfare and Population Development in the Department of Health. As Chief Director in Communication and Ministerial Services in the Department of Public Service and Administration, Prof. Perez played a crucial role in shaping and implementing health communication strategies nationally.

Her leadership was further demonstrated through her tenure as Chairperson of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) Board, and active participation in various health committees, forums, and conferences. Through these platforms, she contributed significantly to formulating and advocating for progressive health policies, always with a strong focus on equity, access, and transformation.

• Commitment to Transformation and Academic Excellence

Prof. Perez’s association with the University of Cape Town’s Health Sciences Faculty began in 2000 as the Transformation Officer, followed by senior leadership roles as Dean and Deputy Dean, where she championed undergraduate education and transformation initiatives. Her proactive approach to inclusivity, student support, and curriculum innovation has left a lasting legacy within the faculty.

• Community Engagement and Public Health Advocacy

A passionate health activist, Prof. Perez has consistently engaged with community health initiatives, serving as a contact tracer and volunteer vaccinator during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her ongoing voluntary work with various organisations, as well as her role as Chairperson of the Appeals Committee of the Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical Training Programme (NMFCMTP), further underscores her commitment to the health and wellbeing of South African communities.

• Why Prof. Perez is an Ideal Convocation Executive Committee Member

Prof. Gonda Perez embodies the values of scholarship, service, and social justice that are at the heart of the Convocation Executive Committee’s mission. Her extensive experience in academic leadership, her unwavering dedication to transformation and community 2

upliftment, and her proven capacity for policy development and advocacy make her a uniquely qualified and inspiring choice.

Her vision, collaborative spirit, and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education and public health will greatly enrich the work of the Convocation Committee. She will be a strong advocate for the interests of alumni, students, and the broader university community, ensuring that the committee continues to play a vital role in the future of the university.

In conclusion, we strongly endorse Emeritus Associate Professor Gonda Perez for membership on the University Convocation Committee. Her leadership, integrity, and commitment to transformation will be invaluable assets to the committee and the university as a whole.

Emeritus Associate Professor CV: