About me

a feminist scholar

Professor Meyiwa, a feminist scholar, is part of the Executive Management of the University of South Africa, serving as Vice Principal for the Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation portfolio. She has also served as a university registrar – DUT.

Meyiwa has extensive experience in higher education, as a teacher, researcher and in administration. Prior to her appointment at UNISA she worked at various higher education institutions, including the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) as a senior manager and researcher. Meyiwa has an impeccable academic, leadership and mentorship record with a strong focus on social science research in general and indigenous knowledge systems.

Meyiwa has worked in South Africa and internationally with organisations and research teams ranging from government organisations, universities, and human rights NGOs. She is a member of various parastatals, community, and civil society organisations, such as the Rural Women’s Movement where she is the Advisory Board Member. She has served and continues to do so in several leadership roles outside of UNISA, i.e., as chairperson of evaluation committees and as a lead researcher.

 She has also served on the National Heritage Council and the South African National Heraldry Council as Chairperson. She has presented numerous conference papers, at national and international forums as well as authored numerous research articles & published books.

Areas of Expertise:

  • African Feminisms
  • Indigenous Knowledge Systems
  • Action research with a strong nuance towards self-study research
  • Cultural constructions of gender
  • Impact of HIV/AIDS on parenting
  • Motherhood
  • Administration of Research & Innovation
  • Community Engagement
  • Executive Management in Higher Education