21st Century's Mark Bussin Appointed Chancellor of Kopaline University

Professor Mark Bussin, Group Lead Director at 21st Century, has been appointed Chancellor of Kopaline University in Lusaka, Zambia. He will provide high-level institutional and ceremonial leadership as the university works to widen access to higher education and prepare graduates for employment and business.

Kopaline University said Bussin would bring an international perspective to its leadership and support its ambitions in innovation and partnerships.

Bussin’s career combines corporate advisory work with a substantial contribution to higher education. His academic roles include appointments at the University of Johannesburg and the University of Cape Town. Bussin has supervised 15 doctoral dissertations and 114 master’s theses.

His business experience includes advising boards on remuneration and governance, alongside senior reward roles at Sasol and Standard Bank. That work sits alongside his teaching and research on how organisations manage performance and reward their people.

“It is a privilege to take on this responsibility at Kopaline University. Higher education plays an important role in developing capable, ethical graduates who can contribute meaningfully to their organisations, communities, and economies. I look forward to supporting the university as it continues to build on that ambition,” says Bussin.

Kopaline’s stated mission is to provide affordable, accessible education through campus and online learning. Its focus includes preparing students for the world of work and business, giving a practical context to Bussin’s appointment.

Bussin is a co-founder and former Chairman of 21st Century and continues to serve as its Group Lead Director.

Ntombizone Feni, Group CEO of 21st Century, says the appointment is a proud moment for the organisation.

“Mark has made an enormous contribution to 21st Century over many years, and we are delighted to see his experience recognised in this way. His appointment as Chancellor gives him another platform through which to contribute to leadership development and the growth of people across the continent,” says Feni.