Rhodes University appoints youngest head of journalism

Dr Quatro Mgogo, incoming Head of the School of Journalism and Media Studies (JMS). Source: Rhodes University.

This appointment marks a milestone as Dr Mgogo becomes both the youngest person and the first Black academic to lead JMS. Dr Mgogo has been a senior lecturer at both the School of Journalism and Media Studies and North-West University. With extensive experience in research, supervising and publications, Dr Mgogo intends to create a space for creativity, change and academic progression.

Looking ahead, Dr Mgogo’s 2026–2030 vision outlines an ambitious and socially responsive agenda for the School. His priorities include:

• Deepening transformation and fostering a culture grounded in diversity, inclusion, and collective pride.
• Advancing epistemic justice by reshaping the curriculum to be rigorous, contextually relevant, and aligned with the changing media landscape.
• Extending the School’s reach by offering online short courses for journalists, media managers, and development communication practitioners.
• Promoting multilingualism, with a strong focus on elevating isiXhosa within teaching and learning.
• Addressing postgraduate funding constraints to expand access to high-quality media and journalism education.
• Strengthening collaborations with media industries, newsrooms, and community communication partners across South Africa and the continent.