Windhoek: Advocate Bience Gawanas has been appointed as the Chancellor of the University of Warwick , making history as the first African and first alumnus to hold the position at the top 10 UK university . The announcement was made by the university in a press release on Monday . Gawanas shared her reflections on the appointment via Facebook Wednesday . She recalled arriving in the United Kingdom in 1982 as a Namibian refugee to pursue legal studies in the midst of apartheid . Her eldest brother had been murdered , an event that left her seeking justice against the oppressive system in her homeland . ' I was set on this course when my eldest brother was murdered and until today we have no closure , but what I knew was that a brutal apartheid system was responsible ,' she said . Gawanas also shared memories of organising social events and being active in the student community , as well as working to mobilise support for the Namibian liberation struggle . ' I have come full circle ,' she wrote , noting that sh e was awarded an honourary doctorate by the university last year , and this year , she has been appointed chancellor . Professor Stuart Croft , Vice - Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick , in the press release stated that Gawanas brings a wealth of international experience and a deep commitment to education and global development to the position . ' 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 ,' he said . Gawanas is set to start her new role in January 2025 . Source: The Namibia News Agency