Prof. Tobie van Dyk is professor of applied linguistics in the School of Languages at North-West University (NWU) in South Africa. Currently, he is project leader of a number of large-scale projects also involving international scholars.

In 2023, under the auspices of the National Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR) commissioned Professor Van Dyk to conduct a national language audit across higher education institutions in South Africa. In direct response to the audit’s key findings, the Higher Education Support Programme was initiated in 2024, with Professor Van Dyk once again appointed to lead this important endeavour. Promoting multilingualism in higher education institutions forms a central pillar of the recommendations, reflecting a deeply held commitment:

“Multilingualism in higher education is not just a matter of policy, but a critical enabler of social and academic inclusion.” — Tobie van Dyk

Formerly, Prof. Van Dyk was Head of the Centre for Academic and Professional Language Practice (CAPLP) and Director of the School of Languages, both at NWU.

“As an applied linguist I strive to improve the language ability and academic literacy levels of our students. Language testing and the advancement of multilingualism are my main foci. As a project manager and academic entrepreneur, I derive satisfaction from negotiating a common goal with a multidisciplinary team and setting everything in motion towards completing projects successfully. I collaborate with colleagues in the USA, Africa and Europe, in particular Belgium, the Netherlands and Sweden, at international level and at national level . More information on these are available under the tab “Portfolio of projects” on this site.” — Tobie van Dyk