Naledi Pandor

Naledi Pandor is a South African politician, educator, and academic. Since 2019, she has served as Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. She previously led key ministries, including Education, Higher Education and Training, Science and Technology, and Home Affairs. Born on 7 December 1953 in Durban, she lived in exile in Botswana, Lesotho, Zambia, and the UK. She later returned to South Africa to pursue her education. Naledi Pandor earned a BA in History and English, followed by a Master’s in Education from the University of London and a Master’s in Linguistics from Stellenbosch University. She received a PhD from the University of Pretoria in 2019. Before entering politics, she worked as a teacher and lecturer, including time at the University of Cape Town. In 1994, she became a Member of Parliament and held senior roles such as Deputy Chief Whip and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces. As a cabinet minister, she has championed education reform, science innovation, and international diplomacy. She played a key role in hosting the SKA telescope project and expanding access to research and development. Naledi Pandor has received several honorary doctorates and global recognitions, including Germany’s Grand Cross of Merit and the AAAS Science Diplomacy Award. She continues to promote South Africa’s leadership in global education, peacebuilding, and science.