New CEO for UOWD

Dr Nick Van Der Walt tells Notes that one of his objectives will be growing the university to more than 5,000 students

Dr Nick Van Der Walt recently joined the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) as their new chief executive officer.

His previous tenure was with Massey University in New Zealand and he brings with him a distinguished academic record having specialised in areas of international strategic management, marketing, market research and new business development.

He was appointed by Nelson Mandela, former South African President as the Honorary Consul of South Africa in Auckland, New Zealand, in recognition of his efforts in building strong diplomatic, cultural, trade and investment ties between New Zealand and South Africa.

As Van Der Walt told UOWD, "I look forward to the stimulating challenges ahead."

Excerpts from an interview with Notes.

Is this your first visit to Dubai?
My family has had associations with the region for a number of years.

Unfortunately, having lived and worked extensively in Europe, Africa and Australasia, I did not have the opportunity to visit the UAE, as my work was not focused in this region.

However, it was an area that I had always wanted to spend some time living in given my interest in history and perceptions of life in the Middle East. Accordingly, my family and I are fulfilling a long-held desire.

Why did you leave New Zealand and come to Dubai?
This question is an interesting one. My principal reason from a career perspective was to participate in a very interesting and relevant educational venture with UOWD which was established in 1993.

Having shown its commitment by going through the UAE accreditation process, it is entering a phase of its development that will see its wider engagement with the business and educational communities in the UAE.

It is also wonderful to participate in a venture in a country where there is such a high level of growth and energy.

What attracted you to UOWD?
When I was initially approached, I already knew of the university by reputation. However, I did a thorough investigation and discussed my impending decision with some leading academics.

In all of this and my interactions, I found my views as to its reputation, potential and professionalism reinforced.

What opportunities do you see in UOWD?
Numerous in terms of expanding the offering in such areas as engineering, international certification for professional bodies, engagement with employers and expanding the already active research programme including international publications which has the benefit of showing that our staff are leading thinking in their respective areas.

Usually schools have presidents. Why do you think UOWD chose a CEO and not a president?
Some institutions that are considering entering the UAE also have the title of Vice-Chancellor attached to the appointment. However, of more relevance is the perspective the person brings to the role.

Having been in both business and academic positions, which do you believe describes your personality more?
Both. Plus other aspects, which relates to issues of conscience.

Since the university has already been accredited, what are your post-accreditation projects?
Growing the university to more than 5,000 students, expanding the offering, expanding the research programme and communicating the work we are doing to the relevant sectors of the business community, consultancy and communicating the work our staff and students are doing to employers.

We are attempting to build and continue to contribute to the UAE as demonstrated by our history in the region.

The writer is a graduate in mass communications from the American University of Sharjah