Prof. Ernest Khalema

Prof. Ernest Khalema
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Law and Management Studies
University of KwaZulu-Natal

Ernest Khalema is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Law and Management Studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He has over two decades of academic and research experience, with leadership roles across South Africa and Canada. His expertise spans migration studies, health equity, and chronic disease prevention.

He has authored eight books, over 40 journal articles, and numerous policy briefs and technical reports, reflecting a deep commitment to scholarship that shapes real-world impact. He has led more than 30 interdisciplinary research projects, attracting over R60 million in funding — a testament to his ability to mobilise knowledge and resources for change.

Prior to joining UKZN, he served as Chief Research Scientist at the Human Sciences Research Council and held academic positions in Canada, including Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary and Adjunct Professor at the University of Alberta.

Professor Khalema is widely recognized for his community-based research approach and has received multiple awards for teaching, human rights advocacy, and anti-racism leadership.