The University of the Free State (UFS) has welcomed the appointment of Prof Liezel Alsemgeest, Director of the School of Financial Planning Law in the Faculty of Law, as National Elected Director on the Board of the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI).
According to UFS, the appointment places Alsemgeest among the leaders responsible for helping guide the strategic direction of South Africa’s professional body for financial planners. In her new role, she will contribute to decisions relating to professional standards, ethics, education and the ongoing development of the financial planning profession.
Alsemgeest said she hopes to bring both an academic and practical perspective to the board’s work by helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry needs.
“I would like to contribute to strengthening professional education standards, promoting ethical practice, and ensuring the profession remains relevant and trusted as it navigates a rapidly changing financial landscape,” she said.
She described the appointment as both an honour and an opportunity to give back to a profession that has played a significant role in her academic and professional journey.
The FPI Board is responsible for the institute’s strategic governance and works to uphold professional standards, ethics and the interests of its members and the public. As National Elected Director, Alsemgeest will represent members across the country and contribute to board-level decision-making.
According to UFS, the appointment is expected to strengthen ties between the School of Financial Planning Law and the financial planning profession, while creating opportunities for stronger industry partnerships, collaborative research and professional development initiatives.
Dean of the UFS Faculty of Law, Prof Serges Kamga, said the appointment reflects the calibre of academic leadership within the faculty.
“This appointment is a fitting recognition of a proficient scholar whose intellectual rigour, research excellence, and unwavering commitment to academic leadership have enriched both the Faculty of Law and the University of the Free State,” he said.
Alsemgeest added that her involvement at a national level would help bring current industry insights into the classroom and create greater opportunities for student mentorship, networking and professional development.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
