Scientechniz Congratulates Advocate Bience Gawanas

Scientechniz Congratulates Advocate Bience Gawanas on historic appointment as Chancellor of Warwick University. Scientechniz proudly con...

Scientechniz Congratulates Advocate Bience Gawanas on historic appointment as Chancellor of Warwick University.

Scientechniz proudly congratulates Advocate Bience Gawanas, a trailblazer in social justice, governance, and global leadership, on her appointment as the Chancellor of the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom. Advocate Gawanas, who is also a distinguished member of PACON (Pan-African Centre of Namibia), Vice Chair of the Global Fund, and a champion of social good, becomes the first Namibian and African to hold this prestigious position.

Her installation ceremony, held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 15:00, marks a historic milestone for Namibia and the African continent, reflecting her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering positive change in education and beyond. The University of Warwick officially welcomed Advocate Bience Gawanas as its new Chancellor. A Namibian lawyer, diplomat, and advocate for human rights, Bience brings a remarkable legacy of leadership and social impact to her new role. 

Advocate Bience Gawanas Vice Chair Global Fund has been at the helm of international politics.

As Chancellor, Bience will serve as the ceremonial head of the University, presiding over major events such as graduation ceremonies and acting as a global ambassador for Warwick’s principles of academic excellence, diversity, and societal advancement. Reflecting on her appointment, Bience shared, “When I walked through the gates of Warwick in 1982 as a student, becoming Chancellor was the last of my thoughts. Being an alumna is not just an honour, it places a responsibility as I’m part of the Warwick family.”

She continued, “I hope that during my time as Chancellor, many young women, especially Black women, will see an opportunity and feel inspired that no matter your circumstances, you can rise above them. I will use my office to listen, to learn, and to see what we can improve on. But most importantly, I want people to feel that the Chancellor is just a human being.”

Advocate Bience Gawanas’ journey to this achievement is a testament to resilience and determination. A fierce opponent of South Africa’s apartheid-era government, she was forced into exile alongside many Namibians. She arrived at Warwick as a refugee under a scholarship scheme, graduating in 1986 with a legal degree and qualifying as a barrister at Lincoln's Inn in 1987.

Returning to Namibia in 1989, she played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future during its journey to independence. In 2023, she was awarded an honorary degree by Warwick in recognition of her illustrious career spanning over four decades in law, governance, and human rights.

Bience Gawanas’ extensive career includes prominent roles with the Government of Namibia, the United Nations, and the African Union. She has tirelessly championed social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, women’s rights, and sustainable development, earning international acclaim as a defender of human dignity and justice.

Chancellor Bience Gawanas

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick, expressed his enthusiasm for Bience’s appointment, stating: "Bience brings a wealth of international experience and a deep commitment to education and global development. Her leadership on the world stage, particularly in promoting equality and opportunity, aligns perfectly with Warwick’s mission to inspire and nurture the next generation of leaders. This, combined with her own personal story and career as a Warwick alumna, makes her the perfect next Chancellor. 

We are thrilled to welcome her to the Warwick community." Bience succeeds Baroness Catherine Ashton, who served as Chancellor since 2016. The University extended its gratitude to Baroness Ashton for her dedicated years of service and her contributions to Warwick’s global reputation as a world-leading institution. Advocate Gawanas’ appointment is not only a significant personal achievement but also a testament to the growing relationship between Namibia, Africa, and Warwick University. 

It underscores the University’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and celebrating diversity. The University of Warwick, consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, is renowned for its innovative research, world-class education, and international outlook.

In 2025, Warwick celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of transformative education, groundbreaking research, and boundless curiosity. As Chancellor, Advocate Bience Gawanas will play a key role in shaping the next chapter of the University’s legacy. Scientechniz applauds Advocate Bience Gawanas for her groundbreaking appointment and looks forward to her inspiring leadership in this historic role.