Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Kiru Pillay as Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology, effective 1 October 2026.
In his new role, Dr Pillay will lead the strategic development of the faculty, with responsibility for advancing academic programmes, research, emerging technology capability, and partnerships that strengthen student learning and graduate outcomes.
Dr Pillay brings more than 38 years of experience across the ICT sector, spanning industry, academia, research, and the public sector. His career has focused on digital transformation, cybersecurity, data governance, emerging technologies, and the development of secure and interoperable digital ecosystems.
His public-sector experience includes 10 years with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, where he contributed to South Africa’s national cybersecurity mandate through the national Computer Security Incident Response Team. He has also supported digital transformation initiatives through the African Digital Transformation Centre.
At national and international level, Dr Pillay has participated in multistakeholder engagements involving the United Nations, African Union, and Southern African Development Community. His areas of expertise include cybersecurity governance, data sovereignty, cross-border data exchange, AI ethics, Internet of Things governance, and digital public infrastructure.
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Pillay said he looks forward to building on the faculty’s academic and professional foundations.
“My focus will be on developing a faculty that combines strong academic foundations with practical exposure, meaningful research, and opportunities for students to engage with the technologies shaping their professions. I look forward to working with colleagues, students, and industry partners to build on Richfield’s existing strengths.”
The appointment comes as Richfield continues to strengthen its technology education offering in response to the changing skills needs of industry. With AI, cybersecurity, data, and other emerging technologies reshaping the world of work, the institution is placing greater emphasis on ensuring its programmes remain relevant, practical, and closely connected to the demands graduates will face beyond the classroom.
Shireen Chengadu, Group Chief Academic Officer of Growth-Ten, said Dr Pillay’s vast business, government and societal experience in local and global markets will support the institution’s long-term ambitions for the faculty and cross faculty integrations.
“Dr Pillay brings a valuable combination of academic, policy, and ICT experience. His leadership will support Richfield as we continue to develop programmes and learning environments that prepare students for the opportunities and demands of a changing technology landscape.”
The added benefit of his appointment is that Dr Kiru is no stranger to Richfield; he has already made a significant contribution to lecturing and supervising in our MBA programme since our inaugural cohort in 2021.
His appointment marks an important step in Richfield’s continued investment in the Faculty of Information Technology and its commitment to developing graduates equipped to contribute to South Africa and Africa’s evolving digital economy.