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

Bience Gawanas, a former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, officially began her role as Chancellor on January 23^rd 2025.

As Chancellor, Bience serves 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.

Expressing her excitement for the new role, Bience said, “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.”

“I hope that during my time as Chancellor many young women, especially Black women, will see an opportunity and will 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 think I want people to feel that the Chancellor is just a human being.”

Bience fought against the South African apartheid-era government and was forced into exile alongside many other Namibians. She came to Warwick as a refugee to undertake her legal studies as part of a scholarship scheme, graduating in 1986 and qualifying as a barrister at Lincoln's Inn in 1987. She returned to Namibia in 1989 to help shape its independent future.

She was awarded an honorary degree by Warwick in 2023, in recognition of her career spanning over 40 years in law and human rights.

Commenting on the installation, 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 next Chancellor. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Warwick community."

Bience is renowned for her extensive career with the Government of Namibia, the United Nations, and the African Union, where she has held senior positions championing social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, women’s rights, and sustainable development. Her leadership in negotiating global frameworks has earned her international recognition as a defender of justice and human dignity.

Bience succeeds Baroness Catherine Ashton, who served as Chancellor since 2016. The University thanks Baroness Ashton for her years of dedicated service and her tireless advocacy for Warwick’s growth as a world-leading institution.

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



This year, Warwick marks its 60th anniversary with a series of events to celebrate six decades of education, research, and infinite curiosity. You can read more about Bience in this interview with our alumni team.

ENDS