Indian-origin global negotiator appointed director of renowned academic institution in South Africa

An Indian-origin global negotiator has been appointed as the director of a renowned academic institution in South Africa. Professor Faizel Ismail will take charge as the director of the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance from Professor Alan Hirsch in July.

Ismail is known for his role in negotiating major agreements for South Africa, including with the Southern African Customs Union as well as the Trade and Development Agreement with the European Union.

Ismail, a professor at the UCT’s School of Economics, has in the past served as an ambassador to the World Trade Organisation and a senior advisor to the Minister of Trade and Industry.