04 August 2026
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Story Chrystal Francis
Prof Bonang Mohale, Chancellor of the University of the Free State, reflects on the values that have shaped his leadership following his receipt of the African Insurance Exchange Award 2026, including Ubuntu, trust, integrity, and the university's responsibility to prepare adaptable graduates.
For the Chancellor of the University of the Free State (UFS), the recognition is meaningful because it reflects more than individual achievement. It also affirms the value of people feeling seen, heard, supported, respected, and appreciated for their contributions.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude, and feel absolutely touched, profoundly humbled, and deeply honoured indeed,” Prof Mohale said.
He believes recognition can strengthen motivation and engagement by showing people how their daily work contributes to the success of a wider group. It also responds to a fundamental human need for appreciation and helps to build trust.
Values as an internal compass
The award recognises Prof Mohale’s commitment to ethical and principled leadership.
Ubuntu, honesty, integrity, and respect are the values that have guided him most consistently.
He describes values as an internal compass that shapes daily decisions, defines character, and influences how people live and treat others. They also help individuals remain connected to a sense of purpose and personal fulfilment.
Ubuntu is central to this outlook because it places relationships at the heart of leadership. It recognises that people do not achieve or lead in isolation, and that decisions affect the wider community.
Trust holds society together
Prof Mohale regards trust as essential to human well-being, social relationships, and the functioning of institutions.
It influences whether people choose to cooperate, rely on one another, and work towards shared goals. Trust also strengthens close relationships, which contribute to positive emotions and life satisfaction.
“Trust is built incrementally through small, consistent actions rather than grand gestures,” he said.
“It requires aligning your words with your actions, demonstrating reliability over time, practising vulnerability, and prioritising the well-being of others over your own self-interest.”
He also describes the economy as a network of relationships built on mutual expectations. Whether people are making a purchase, working on a project, or sharing a living space, they depend on others to act honestly and responsibly.
For Prof Mohale, trust is ‘the glue that holds civilisation together’.
Preparing adaptable citizens
Prof Mohale believes universities such as the UFS must prepare graduates not only for employment, but also for active, thoughtful, and adaptable citizenship.
This requires flexible learning models, integrated digital platforms, and interdisciplinary research. It also means ensuring that students are not passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in describing, defining, and shaping the future.
Universities must remain committed to social justice, transformation, and meaningful access while balancing global engagement with local responsiveness.
Prof Mohale points to hunger, student period poverty, and mental health as challenges requiring direct institutional attention. Universities must also advance research that responds to pressing societal concerns.
“In times of uncertainty, universities must be anchors of hope, critical thought, and innovation,” he said.
They should pursue inclusive academic excellence, collaborate in solving the country’s problems, and prepare students for the complexities of the world they will inherit.
His perspective reflects a firm belief in the power of higher education to transform lives and societies and to contribute to conscientious leadership, economic growth, and prosperity.
Leading with courage and purpose
Prof Mohale’s message to UFS students and young professionals is grounded in courage and authenticity.
“Be brave enough to speak your truth, love with your whole heart, and live a life that feels true to you.”
The African Insurance Exchange Award 2026 places renewed focus on a leadership philosophy shaped by trust, Ubuntu, integrity, and respect.
It also highlights universities' responsibility to prepare graduates who can adapt to change, lead with purpose, and contribute meaningfully to society.