Professor Nampombe Saurombe, Acting Chair of the Department of Information Science, recalls a defining moment early in her journey: realising that her purpose was not simply to study science, but to make knowledge accessible and meaningful to those who need it most. This conviction guided her into librarianship, knowledge management, and archives fields that now shape her work as a scholar, mentor, and leader.

Throughout her career at Unisa, she has taken on roles in academic quality assurance, student support, and postgraduate administration. These experiences, strengthened by formal leadership training, prepared her for her current role. Though temporary, she views the appointment as a vital responsibility and is grateful for the trust placed in her. She credits her faith and the support of her family, including her husband, Professor Amos Saurombe, for grounding her work.

The Department of Information Science stands as one of Unisa’s most dynamic and strategically positioned academic units, playing a critical role in shaping information professionals for South Africa, the continent, and beyond. Through its diverse qualifications, research productivity, and commitment to transformation, the department contributes directly to national development priorities and global knowledge production. Under Professor Saurombe’s leadership, the department continues to elevate its profile, strengthen its academic culture, and expand its influence across teaching, research, and community engagement.

Professor Saurombe leads with principles rooted in African philosophies of collaboration and community. Her approach aligns departmental priorities with Unisa’s transformation agenda, positioning the department to address South Africa’s unique information challenges. She invests time in understanding each colleague’s strengths and aspirations, fostering an environment where academic excellence and innovation can thrive.

With over 36 doctoral-level staff, the department is well-placed to enhance global visibility through international partnerships and research addressing information illiteracy, digital divides, environmental concerns, and indigenous knowledge systems.

Saurombe emphasises that success in academia is rarely solitary. Mentors such as Professors Patrick Ngulube, Bosire Onyancha, and Mpho Ngoepe shaped her academic path. Her progression from graduating cum laude to earning NRF Y and later C2 ratings reflects both her dedication and the support she received. Her NRF rating is especially meaningful given her scientist parents, (father) Professor Pearson Mnkeni, also an NRF-rated scientist, and (mother) Dr Astereda Mnkeni.

Global and Community Engagement

The Department of Information Science benefits significantly from Professor Saurombe’s international and local engagements. Her active participation in global archival bodies brings visibility to the department and positions Unisa as a contributor to worldwide information science discourse. These international linkages open doors for research collaboration, student mobility, and staff development, advancing the department’s reputation and influence.

At a community level, the department’s partnerships such as the work with the Gauteng Provincial Archives demonstrate its commitment to public value. These collaborations not only strengthen the department’s profile, but also highlight its role in supporting communities to document, preserve, and tell their own stories. Such initiatives reinforce the department as a leader in socially responsive scholarship.

Her leadership extends beyond the university. She represents Africa on international bodies such as the International Council on Archives and the ARMA International Education Scholarship Fund Committee. Locally, her work with the Gauteng Provincial Archives supports communities in preserving their own histories and creating more inclusive archival practices.

Since joining the department in 2009, she has witnessed its growth from fewer than 20 to more than 50 staff members, offering seven qualifications and embracing diversity; an attribute she believes strengthens the department.

The Department of Information Science continues to attract students who are passionate about shaping the future of information access, digital innovation, and knowledge preservation. Professor Saurombe encourages current students and alumni to recognise the department as a space of endless opportunities that equips them with skills relevant to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, community development, and global information ecosystems.

She encourages students and alumni to embrace cultural diversity, integrate indigenous knowledge, and design solutions rooted in African contexts. Global models, she argues, should be adapted or improved to meet local needs. Ultimately, information work is about people understanding their realities and enabling them to shape a more just and informed society.