A PhD in mathematics from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (Wits) by formal education, he has published mathematics papers in international journals and is co-author of a monograph in approximation theory. His scholarship has diversified into other fields including higher education management, in which he has published.

Nationally, he currently serves on the Boards of the South African Technology Network, re-named Technological Higher Education Network: South Africa (since 2007, and as Chairman between 2010 and 2014); Universities: South Africa (since 2007, as Chairman, 2018-2019 and as Chair: World of Work Strategy Group since 2022), Synthecon Sutures Manufacturing Board (as non-executive director since 2006). He served as Deputy Chairman from 2019 to 2022 at the Umgeni Water Board. Internationally, he has served as the Regional Chairman: Southern Africa, of the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) between 2011 and 2021.