Dr Kiru Pillay has been appointed dean of the Faculty of Information Technology at Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology, effective 1 October 2026.
Dr Kiru Pillay, Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology at Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
With more than 38 years of ICT experience spanning industry, academia, research, and the public sector, Pillay has focused his career on digital transformation, cybersecurity, data governance, emerging technologies, and the development of secure, interoperable digital ecosystems.
In his new role, Pillay will lead the strategic development of the faculty, with responsibility for advancing academic programmes, research, emerging technology capability, and partnerships that strengthen student learning and graduate outcomes.
“My focus will be on developing a faculty that combines strong academic foundations with practical exposure, meaningful research, and opportunities for students to engage with the technologies shaping their professions," said Pillay. "I look forward to working with colleagues, students, and industry partners to build on Richfield’s existing strengths.”
Pillay's association with Richfield dates back to 2021, through his contributions to lecturing and supervision of the institution's MBA programme.
His public-sector experience includes 10 years with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, where he contributed to South Africa’s national cybersecurity mandate through the national Computer Security Incident Response Team. He has also supported digital transformation initiatives through the African Digital Transformation Centre.
At national and international level, Pillay has participated in multistakeholder engagements involving the United Nations, African Union, and Southern African Development Community. His areas of expertise include cybersecurity governance, data sovereignty, cross-border data exchange, AI ethics, Internet of Things governance, and digital public infrastructure.
Shireen Chengadu, group chief academic officer of Growth-Ten, said Pillay’s vast business, government and societal experience in local and global markets will support the institution’s long-term ambitions for the faculty and cross faculty integrations.
“Dr Pillay brings a valuable combination of academic, policy, and ICT experience. His leadership will support Richfield as we continue to develop programmes and learning environments that prepare students for the opportunities and demands of a changing technology landscape.”
