Brian O’Connell, the former vice-chancellor of UWC, has passed away at the age of 77. (UWC/Facebook)
- The former vice-chancellor of UWC, Brian O’Connell, has passed away at the age of 77
- O’Connell served as rector from 2001 to 2014
- The university’s flag will be flown at half-mast this week in honor of O’Connell
Brian O’Connell, the former rector and vice-chancellor of the University of the Western Cape (UWC), has sadly passed away at the age of 77. O’Connell served as rector from 2001 to 2014, overseeing the university during challenging times.
He led UWC through financial vulnerabilities, evolving enrollment trends, and a despondent campus community. O’Connell resisted institutional mergers to protect UWC’s identity and led efforts to rebuild the institution as a site of knowledge production and hope.
His tenure focused on improving UWC’s academic standing and research profile, particularly in areas neglected under apartheid. O’Connell’s leadership emphasized engaging with complex realities to play a meaningful role in South Africa’s development.
O’Connell’s legacy will be remembered at UWC with the flying of the university flag at half-mast this week. He leaves behind his wife, Judith, and children, Amanda-Leigh and Bryan.