When Dr Mafu Rakometsi was honoured with the Cum Laude Award at the University of the Free State (UFS) Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Awards in 2018, it was more than a celebration of achievement – it was a moment that affirmed a life dedicated to educational excellence and public service.   

Today, as the Chief Executive Officer of Umalusi – the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training – Dr Rakometsi continues to shape the national educational landscape with vision, integrity, and purpose. His journey reflects the profound and lasting impact of UFS Alumni who lead with distinction. 

A defining milestone 

The UFS Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Awards honour graduates who exemplify excellence, leadership, and service to society. Receiving the Cum Laude Award of the Year placed Dr Rakometsi among an esteemed cohort of alumni whose contributions extend far beyond their professions. 

Reflecting on the recognition, he describes it as a defining milestone that affirmed his commitment to advancing educational development in South Africa and beyond. The award not only acknowledged his achievements, but also strengthened his professional standing within national and international education networks. 

Expanding influence and global leadership 

Prestigious recogniton often carries influence long after the ceremony concludes. For Dr Rakometsi, the award elevated his visibility across academic, governmental, and regulatory spheres, creating opportunities for strategic partnerships and leadership at the highest levels. 

“Since receiving the award, my career has grown significantly. I served as President of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) from 2014 to 2015. I am currently serving as President of the International Association for Educational Assessment (IAEA), a role I held since 2015,” he says. 

These leadership roles reflect his standing as a respected voice in assessment and quality assurance, contributing to international discourse on education standards and policy. 

Leading with purpose at Umalusi  

As CEO of Umalusi, Dr Rakometsi oversees one of South Africa’s most critical education quality assurance bodies. Under his stewardship, the organisation safeguards standards in general and further education and training, ensuring the credibility and integrity of assessment systems nationwide. 

Inspiring the next generation of Kovsies 

Dr Rakometsi’s journey underscores the transformative power of recognition when combined with dedication and perseverance. While the 2018 award celebrated his accomplishments, it also broadened the platform from which he could serve. 

For fellow alumni, current students, and emerging professionals, his trajectory offers a compelling reminder that sustained excellence creates opportunity. And when opportunity meets preparation, leadership flourishes.