Former UN Under-Secretary-General Bience Gawanas appointed new Chancellor

The Namibian lawyer, diplomat and social justice advocate Bience Gawanas has been appointed as the new Chancellor of The University of Warwick.

Bience, a former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, will start her new role from January 2025.

In her role, Bience will serve as the ceremonial head of the University, presiding over major events, including graduation ceremonies, and acting as an ambassador for Warwick's principles of academic excellence, diversity, and social impact.

Commenting on the appointment, Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of The University of Warwick, said: “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 candidate to be our next Chancellor. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Warwick community."

Bience fought against the South African apartheid-era Government and was forced into exile along with many other Namibians. She came to Warwick as a refugee to undertake her legal studies as part of a scholarship scheme. She graduated in 1986 and qualified as a barrister at Lincoln's Inn in 1987, returning to Namibia in 1989.

She was made an Honorary Graduate at Warwick last year in recognition of her career across law and human rights over 40 years.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Bience said: “I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Chancellor of The University of Warwick. Education is a powerful tool for transformation, as I found out from my own time at Warwick.

“I arrived at Warwick as a refugee and left knowing that Warwick had empowered me to contribute to an independent Namibia and to an equitable and just world.

“I look forward to working with the Warwick community to continue its tradition of academic excellence and inclusivity."

Bience is best known for her extensive career with the Government of Namibia, the United Nations and the African Union, where she has held senior positions focused on social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, women’s rights, and sustainable development.

Her leadership in negotiating global frameworks has earned her wide recognition as a champion of justice and human dignity.

Bience takes over from the outgoing Chancellor, Baroness Catherine Ashton, who has served in the role since 2016. Baroness Ashton has been a tireless advocate for Warwick’s growth as a world-leading institution, and the University extends its gratitude for her years of dedicated service.

The University of Warwick, consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, is known for its rigorous academic programmes, innovative research, and strong international partnerships.

Next year, Warwick will mark its 60th anniversary with a series of events to celebrate six decades of education, research and infinite curiosity.

Discover more about our Change Makers at Warwick Business School. 

Further reading:

An interview with Bience Philomena Gawanas

Change Maker: Elham Fardad is helping migrants boost the UK economy

School celebrates women's campaigner with Honorary Doctorate